I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Smart Lock For Front Door (2023)

I recently installed this deadbolt lock on my front door, and I must say, it lives up to its advertised claims. The installation process was quick and easy, taking me only about 20 minutes per door. The instructions provided a clear step-by-step guide for changing the master code, setting user codes, activating auto-close, and setting fingerprints. I found it helpful to laminate the instructions for future reference.

Locking and unlocking the door is incredibly convenient with this lock. All it takes is a simple push of any button for a second or two. The speed at which the lock responds to a fingerprint is impressive, unlocking in just 0.3 of a second. It's as simple as placing your finger on the lock, and voila, it's unlocked. Additionally, you can program up to twenty 4-digit (or longer) user codes or fingerprints, making it convenient for friends, family, or vendors to access your home. Just remember to press the button above the numbers after entering the code.

While I have only been using this lock for a month, I cannot comment on the battery life yet. However, it's reassuring to know that the lock comes with 2 keys as a backup. In case of any battery issues, you can still unlock the door with a traditional twist handle from the inside.

One important piece of advice I have is to ensure that your door closes smoothly before installing this lock. If your current deadbolt requires excessive force or adjustment to close properly, you may need to make some tweaks to the hole and the receiving metal part where the deadbolt inserts. This is especially crucial if you plan on using the two-hour auto lock feature. If the deadbolt gets stuck while trying to close, the lock may fail to engage. It's also worth mentioning that if you have guests who are not aware of the door's specific closing requirements, it's best to make it easy for them to avoid any issues.

I recently purchased and installed three Kwikset Smart Locks for my home, and I must say that I am impressed with their performance and functionality. Initially, I had some concerns about the battery life, but after a firmware update released by Kwikset, the issue has been resolved. Previously, I was changing the batteries every month, but now they last for an impressive 106 days, which is four times longer than before the update. This improvement has made me confident in the reliability of these locks.

Setting up the locks was a breeze, thanks to the clear and straightforward instructions provided by Kwikset. Once installed, the setup process was equally simple and intuitive. I have been using these locks for about two weeks now, and apart from one incident where the locks temporarily lost internet connectivity, I haven't experienced any issues with the Wi-Fi connection. I should note that I use a mesh Wi-Fi system, and while other products have required a 2.4 GHz connection without any problems, this one incident might have been an isolated occurrence. If the issue persists, I will consider creating a dedicated 2.4 GHz network for the locks.

The physical buttons on the locks work flawlessly, and the integration with Google Home is seamless. To unlock the locks using Google Home, you need to set a PIN, but with the app, no PIN is required. Speaking of the app, it is user-friendly and allows for easy management of PINs and users. However, I have noticed that the app occasionally hangs, which may have been the cause of the connectivity issue I experienced. Nevertheless, using Google Home to unlock the locks has always been reliable.

One aspect I would like to see improved in the app is the notification settings. Currently, there is no option to select specific types of notifications, resulting in a flood of notifications for every lock or unlock event. It would be beneficial to have the ability to customize notifications and receive alerts only for battery life or loss of connection.

One pleasant surprise I discovered was the option to turn on the backlit keypad. By disabling keypad sound in the app settings, the backlight automatically turns on. This feature is particularly useful when it's dark outside, as it allows for easy and convenient keypad entry. The backlight only turns on when a button is pressed and doesn't stay illuminated continuously.

It's worth mentioning that these locks come with physical keys, and rekeying an existing key is a straightforward process. Unfortunately, my keys were too thick to work, but I was able to rekey one lock to function with both my front and back doors. This flexibility adds to the convenience and versatility of these locks.

In terms of battery life, while the estimated range is 4-6 months depending on usage, I did have to replace the original batteries after two months. The locks indicated a battery life of 40%, and there were occasional instances of the locks showing as jammed when opening or closing. However, replacing the batteries resolved this issue, and I will monitor the performance of the new batteries going forward.

I am extremely pleased with the performance of the Sifely Smart Lock. The app and internal software work seamlessly, allowing for smooth and quick operation. However, I did encounter an issue with the latch bolt assembly jamming up after a day and a half of use. This resulted in the lock becoming non-functional and almost locking my tenant out. Despite this setback, I must commend the company's customer service for promptly sending me a replacement part within two days.

One minor inconvenience I faced during installation was that the handle of the Sifely Smart Lock protruded too far, making it difficult to close both the storm door and the entry door simultaneously. I had to shim out the storm door to resolve this issue. It is worth noting that if you have a storm door, you may need to account for this potential challenge. Additionally, if your storm door opens on the same side as the entry door, the handles of both doors may bump into each other, making it impossible to close both doors simultaneously. I had to reverse my storm door to overcome this obstacle, only to discover that the Smart Lock now interferes with the storm door glass, preventing it from closing properly.

Despite these installation hiccups, the Sifely Smart Lock functions exceptionally well and offers a variety of convenient access options. I particularly enjoy the fingerprint feature, which has proven to be a reliable and secure method of entry. The lock's attractive gold design has also garnered compliments from others.

As a salon suite renter, I no longer have to worry about locking myself out thanks to the Sifely Smart Lock. The ease of installation, taking only 30 minutes, was an added bonus. Overall, I am satisfied with the lock's performance and would recommend it to others, with the caveat to consider potential compatibility issues with storm doors.

I recently upgraded my front door lock with the Veise Fingerprint Door Lock Set, and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. This lock offers both functionality and style, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their home security.

First and foremost, the installation process was seamless. Despite not being a DIY expert, I was able to easily follow the clear and concise instructions provided. Within a short amount of time, I had this sleek and modern lock system installed on my front door, instantly improving both the security and aesthetics of my home.

One of the standout features of this lock is the fingerprint recognition technology. It is incredibly fast and accurate, eliminating the need for keys or complex codes. With just a quick touch of my finger, I can effortlessly enter my home. This feature is not only convenient for me but also for my guests. I can easily grant them temporary access without having to share a physical key or code.

In addition to the fingerprint recognition, the lock also offers an electronic keypad. This provides multiple access options, allowing me to enter a code if I ever forget my phone or have guests who do not have their fingerprints registered. The keypad is responsive and illuminated, making it easy to use even in low-light conditions.

The build quality of the Veise Fingerprint Door Lock Set is exceptional. It feels sturdy and durable, giving me confidence that it will withstand the test of time. I also appreciate the thoughtful design, as it seamlessly integrates with my existing door hardware, maintaining the overall aesthetic of my home.

I am extremely satisfied with this lock and it has exceeded my expectations in terms of functionality and ease of use. The installation process was a breeze, especially since I had preexisting holes in my door. However, even if you don't have existing holes, the lock comes with mounting mats that make it easy to place and space the lock properly.

Setting up the lock was a bit time-consuming initially, as I had to reset it a couple of times to get it to register with my app. However, once I figured it out, adding users was a piece of cake. I could add permanent users, one-time users, schedule-based users, and even temporary users for Airbnb purposes, all through the app on my phone. The app also allows me to keep track of who accessed the lock, when they did it, and even if they locked themselves out due to input errors.

The mechanical operation of the lock is smooth and efficient. It locks and unlocks quickly, and it verbally notifies me when the door is locked or unlocked, as well as if there are any issues with the operation. I particularly appreciate the sturdy and smooth handle latch on the outside, as well as the handle on the inside that turns easily to open the door. It's also worth mentioning that the handle can be turned up or down, providing flexibility for users with different hand sizes.

Now, let's talk about the biometrics feature, specifically the fingerprint scanner. While there may be some challenges with this feature, I have encountered and overcome them all. Firstly, it's important to have the physical key with you when setting up the fingerprint for each user, as the lock will lock itself if the fingerprint code is inputted incorrectly five times.

Secondly, when setting up the fingerprints, make sure to do it with the door closed and in a natural and comfortable position that you would typically be in when using the lock. The fingerprint scanner works flawlessly once set up correctly, but it's not as forgiving as the fingerprint scanner on your phone. It requires a straight up and down placement of the finger, without any rolling or partial contact. Consistency in finger placement is key to ensure accurate readings later on.

Lastly, if you encounter any issues or inconsistencies with the fingerprint recognition, it's best to delete the stored fingerprint and set it up again. I found that setting it up with the door closed helped with positioning my hand comfortably for locking and unlocking.

I had the opportunity to contact customer service when I accidentally added my phone number and email to two different accounts. While it took a bit of effort to get in touch with them, they were prompt in calling me back. The customer service representative, Nancy, was very helpful and proficient in English, although there were some minor communication difficulties. She quickly understood my issue and suggested a solution. To avoid keeping me on hold, she asked if she could call me back, which she did relatively quickly. She guided me through the process of transferring my locks from one account to another, and also provided written instructions in WhatsApp for future reference. Overall, the customer service experience was positive and the call lasted around 15-20 minutes.

The Sifely Smart Lock is a game-changer in home security. With its sleek design, advanced features, and ease of use, this lock is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their home's safety.

The lock itself is made of high-quality materials, including heavy gauge steel and a plastic digital screen keypad. It also features a biometric fingerprint scanner, RFID swipe keys, and custom emergency keys that are cleverly hidden and difficult for thieves to guess.

Installation is incredibly simple, with just a few screws needed to secure the lock. The system is self-contained and runs on 4 AA batteries, which can be easily recharged with a USB cable if needed. The process of setting up fingerprints, temporary numeric passwords, and RFID key cards is quick and intuitive, taking only a matter of seconds.

Once installed, the lock is incredibly easy to use. With the ability to open the lock with your fingerprint, you no longer have to worry about carrying around keys or wondering if you locked the door when you left the house. The lock also has a stylish appearance that is sure to impress anyone who sees it in action.

The Sifely Smart Lock offers a wide range of features, including phone app access control, RFID key cards, unlimited biometric access, and unlimited temporary numeric passwords. It also provides notifications to your phone when the door is opened, as well as emergency alarms and shut down if the wrong code or fingerprint is used too many times.

In terms of customer service, Sifely stands out from the rest. Their prompt and friendly response to inquiries, as well as their willingness to quickly replace damaged locks, showcases their commitment to customer satisfaction.

I recently purchased the Teeho keyless deadbolt and I must say, it is a great product at an affordable price. However, there are a few things to note before purchasing.

Firstly, it is important to be aware that the deadbolt requires a 2-1/8" hole for installation. If your door already has a smaller hole, like my door did with a 1-5/8" hole, you will need to enlarge it. I checked other brands and found that this is a common requirement among major brands. Luckily, being a plumber, I had the necessary tools to enlarge the hole. I used a 2" copper pipe, which fit perfectly, and traced the circle on the door. I then used tin snips to cut the first hole and a hole saw to drill through the other side. The foam insulation in the door helped to keep the hole saw centered. Once the hole was complete, the rest of the installation was simple and the deadbolt programmed easily.

While it has only been a day since installation, I cannot speak for the longevity of the product. However, considering that I can buy three of these deadbolts for the price of one from a major brand, I am satisfied with the cost-effectiveness. It is worth noting that even major brands have their own issues, so there's no guarantee that they would last any longer.

One thing to keep in mind during installation is that there are three tiny screws in the hardware bag that attach the interior cover. Be cautious when opening the bag, as these screws tend to go flying.

Over the years, I have purchased several keyless deadbolts from different manufacturers for various entrances. Many of them were difficult to program, but the Teeho deadbolt was a breeze to set up. It is also a great choice for those who prefer a keyless entry system that cannot be hacked, as it is not connected to the internet.

The installation process was generally simple, except for one minor issue. The cables provided were slightly too short to connect as shown in the instruction video. This might be a quality control issue, but I found a workaround by flipping the back piece horizontally next to the cable, allowing me to connect it. Then, I could move it to its upright position.

After researching and watching a professional locksmith review, I decided to purchase the Kwikset Halo smart lock. One of the main reasons I chose this lock is because of its ability to be rekeyed by the user. I have always had Kwikset locks and appreciate the convenience of being able to rekey them myself.

The installation process was straightforward and easy, especially since I was replacing an existing deadbolt. The detailed instructions provided by Kwikset were crucial in ensuring that I followed each step correctly. It took me about 25 minutes to complete the installation, taking my time and double-checking each step.

Setting up the smart lock feature, connecting it to WiFi, updating the firmware, and setting up the app/account took about half the time of the installation process. Once the lock was fully installed, I noticed several pros and a few potential cons.

Pros:

1. Easy installation process.

2. The smart feature uses Bluetooth through WiFi, eliminating the need for a special hub.

3. The lock has a high-quality appearance, and the touch screen keypad is convenient.

4. Multiple unlocking methods, including key, touchpad code, app, and even Alexa integration.

5. The app allows for monitoring of who enters the house and the status of the lock.

6. Reasonable cost compared to other smart locks with similar features.

Possible Cons:

1. The lock produces a slightly louder noise when locking and unlocking due to electronic movements.

2. The LED status light flashes every 5 seconds, although this feature can be turned off.

3. The battery cover on the inside part of the lock is screwed down during installation, requiring the faceplate to be removed to access the battery compartment. However, I discovered that not screwing in this cover allows for easy access to the batteries by simply sliding the cover up.

4. Not following the instructions step by step and correctly may lead to issues with the lock's functionality.

5. Poor WiFi reception in the lock's vicinity may affect its operation.

The keyless entry smart lock I purchased was exactly what I needed to replace my existing deadbolt lock. It came with keys as well, so I had the option of using them as a backup. The installation process was fairly straightforward and took me less than an hour, although it may take longer for someone who hasn't installed a lock before. One minor issue I encountered was that the bolt extended longer than my previous bolt, so I had to chisel the hole in the door frame deeper.

Programming the lock was a breeze, and I was able to set up multiple passcodes for different family members. What sets this lock apart from others is its touchscreen interface, which I believe makes it more durable and possibly more weather resistant due to fewer moving parts. It's important to note that the screen needs to be touched to wake it up before entering the passcode. The lock allows for passcodes of 6-9 digits and offers the option to set up user IDs from 01 to 50. While this may not be necessary for everyone, it provides flexibility for businesses or organizations that require more user IDs. I appreciate the ability to personalize the codes for each user.

The lock is powered by 4 AA batteries and includes a low battery alert in the form of a red flashing light. The locking mechanism operates smoothly, and there is a programmable auto lock feature that can be set for a time delay of 5-30 seconds after unlocking. The default setting is 10 seconds, but it can easily be adjusted or turned off entirely based on individual needs. Additionally, the lock emits sound (beeps) to indicate when a passcode is being entered and when the lock is being opened or closed. For those who prefer a quieter option, the lock can be programmed to silent mode. These programmable features make the lock suitable for various applications, including secure storage, inventory areas, or cash processing rooms, in addition to typical entry doors.

I chose to install this keyless entry smart lock on my front door, and the process was incredibly easy. The package included clear, step-by-step instructions that made the installation effortless, even for someone like me who was replacing a manual deadbolt. The lock itself has a sleek metallic zinc alloy exterior and a matte-finish plastic interior. It runs on 4 AA batteries, which are estimated to last up to 365 days with normal use.

Programming the lock was straightforward, thanks to the comprehensive quick reference guide provided. One notable feature is the ability to set an automatic lock function with a customizable time delay of 5-30 seconds. Additionally, the lock notifies you when the batteries need to be replaced, which is a useful feature. The only minor drawback is that each PIN must be a minimum of 6 digits, likely for security reasons. It would have been nice to have the option to program a shorter PIN.

The hornbill Smart Lock is an impressive device with a multitude of features that make it a top choice for home security. One of the standout features of this lock is the fingerprint entry, which provides the fastest detection and unlock experience I have ever encountered. It truly offers convenience and ease of use.

Additionally, the lock offers generated timed key codes, Alexa integration, and remote status/lock/unlock capabilities. The ability to add multiple keys and fingerprints through the app is a breeze, and the integration with IFTTT allows for a wide range of customization options. You can set up auto unlock when in proximity to your home, schedule auto lock at a specific time, and even create personalized if/then conditions.

While the Alexa integration works well, I found that using fingerprint entry was quicker and more efficient. The voice-activated passcode protection through Alexa does require some extra time to unlock, but it is still a cool feature to have.

Installation of the hornbill Smart Lock took me approximately 30 minutes. The package includes a drill bit for added security, and I would highly recommend drilling the extra hole for maximum stability. It is important to read the instructions thoroughly before starting the installation process to avoid any mishaps. I made the mistake of skipping a step, which caused my lock/unlock state to be affected. However, overall, the installation was not too difficult.

This smart lock is particularly well-suited for rental properties, such as Airbnb, as it allows you to change the access code remotely for each guest. It also provides the convenience of giving maids or cleaners their own unique key code, eliminating the need for physical keys.

The hornbill Smart Lock is made of high-quality steel, giving it a luxurious and elegant appearance. It truly feels like a home accessory found in a 5-star hotel. The seller even provided an installation video, which was helpful in avoiding the need to read the manual. It is important to ensure your door is either "left-hand" or "right-hand" before installation, and the video also demonstrates the need for drilling an additional hole.

Setting up passwords with the TTLock app is incredibly easy, and the app allows for multiple passkeys or the generation of one-time keys for guests. This makes it perfect for rental homes or Airbnb properties. The app also provides the option to unlock the door remotely, although a "gateway" is required for this functionality.

In the event of a dead battery, the lock comes with a pair of physical keys, or you can use a 9V battery for temporary charging. Overall, I am highly satisfied with the hornbill Smart Lock. It seamlessly matches my current door handle and surpasses other expensive smart locks on the market.

One of the standout features of this smart lock is its guest access capabilities. Most smart locks allow you to set up temporary keys for houseguests, which can be deleted when they are no longer needed. The hornbill Smart Lock takes it a step further by allowing you to set time restrictions around when each access code can be used. This provides an added layer of security and convenience.

Considering its price range between $100-$200, I wholeheartedly recommend the hornbill Smart Lock. Its combination of advanced features, ease of use, and elegant design make it a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their home security.