Remote-access Guide

best smart lock for remote access

by Elwin Cassin Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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5 Best WiFi Deadbolt Smart Locks That Offer Remote Access.

  • 1. RemoteLock 5i-B WiFi Deadbolt. View on Amazon.
  • 2. Danalock V2.
  • 3. Schlage Sense Deadbolt + Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter.
  • 4. Lockitron Bolt + Bridge.
  • 5. August Smart Lock + August Connect.

Full Answer

What is the best smart lock for my home?

The sleek August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is easy to install and packs a ton of features into its compact frame. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is a multifaceted smart lock that lets you unlock your door with a fingerprint scan, a mobile app, a keypad, a voice command, or even a traditional key. Fingerprint, keypad, and automatic unlocing.

What is the best WiFi deadbolt smart lock?

5 Best WiFi Deadbolt Smart Locks That Offer Remote Access. 1 1. RemoteLock 5i-B WiFi Deadbolt. View on Amazon. 2 2. Danalock V2. 3 3. Schlage Sense Deadbolt + Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter. 4 4. Lockitron Bolt + Bridge. 5 5. August Smart Lock + August Connect.

Do smart locks work remotely?

Most smart locks currently require a Wi-Fi bridge in order to operate them remotely, so this adds an extra layer to the setup process. Next, we see how well the lock works in everyday operation. Can you use it as easily as a traditional door lock?

What are the different types of smart locks?

For homes, there are two main categories of smart locks. The first type is a deadbolt adapter, an add-on device that replaces the interior thumb turn of your door’s existing deadbolt but not the deadbolt mechanism itself.

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Which smart locks are best?

The best smart locks you can buy todayAugust Wi-Fi Smart Lock. The best smart lock overall. ... August Smart Lock. The best smart lock value. ... Schlage Encode. Best smart lock with an alarm. ... Schlage Encode Plus. The best smart lock for Apple Watch owners. ... Yale Real Living Assure SL. ... Kwikset Halo. ... Level Bolt. ... Lockly Secure Plus.More items...•

What is the best smart lock for rental property?

​​The 5 best smart locks for vacation rentalsSchlage. Schlage's range of models offers advanced tech features, from touchscreen keypads to voice assistant capabilities (like Alexa). ... August Smart Locks. August Smart Locks are quite the contactless solution. ... Kwikset. ... Yale. ... Igloohome.

Can smart door locks be hacked?

Like most smart devices, people often forget that a smart lock is actually a small computer, and it can be hacked. It's possible for hackers to access your phone's data and break in, or they can access the lock itself if it's Bluetooth-enabled.

Do smart locks work without Wi-Fi?

Non-WiFi-enabled Smart Locks Its features, functions and performance aren't affected by an Internet connection.

Which locks work with Airbnb?

Quick Answer: Best Smart Locks for AirbnbsBest Overall: Yale Assure Lock SL.Classic but Modern: Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt.Best for Europeans: Nuki Smart Lock 3.0 Pro.Easiest to Install: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock.Honorable Mention: UltraLoq U-Bolt Pro Smart Lock.

How does Airbnb smart lock work?

Airbnb smart lock A smart lock uses a security code that you can generate, activate and delete remotely by means of a smart device (usually, a smartphone). With this code, the guest will be able to access your property. Some of the best smart locks to check out include the August Smart Lock Pro and Yale Assure Lock SL.

What is the difference between a smart lock and an electronic lock?

While the locking mechanism of a smart electronic lock works much like that of a traditional electronic lock, the upgraded technology does add some additional functionality over older electronic locks. For example, many smart locks can be opened from anywhere in the world via an app on your smartphone.

Are smart locks more secure than key locks?

While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.

Can Yale smart locks be hacked?

Yes, it is possible, in some cases the Nest Yale lock can be hacked. The Nest Yale lock does have vulnerabilities that might end up messing up the door safety in some cases. It is also possible that hackers can access the Nest Yale lock through the Wi-Fi network that it is connected to.

What is the difference between a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi smart lock?

Bluetooth smart locks provide additional security in that they only allow access when the “key” is present on your person, when you are present; however some Bluetooth smart locks also allow for you to send other people digital keys with your phone from a distance, for maximum entrance convenience.

How do smart locks get power?

Smart locks are usually powered by batteries, but it also depends on the type of power source for the smart lock you choose. These batteries supply power for many components, including wireless chips, LED lights, and the motors used to lock and unlock doors. It can be divided into dry batteries and lithium batteries.

Are Bluetooth smart locks safe?

Not only can many smart locks be hacked, but they also are proven to have other vulnerabilities like the ability to be removed with a flathead screwdriver. Since smart locks often work with an existing deadbolt, this may mean they have the same level of security as traditional locks.

Can I put a smart lock on my apartment door?

Simply install on the inside of your door over your existing deadbolt. The August Smart Lock is the best lock for apartments and rental properties because your outside lock is left alone. With the existing deadbolt and keys, landlords and property owners will still be able to access the rental property.

What are rental locks?

Having a smart lock on your rental means you don't have to be around to give guests a key, and you can see when they come and go. You'll know that they made it inside successfully, whether they're having trouble with the lock, and when they've vacated on checkout day, so you can get in to clean.

How do you lock a door without drilling?

Without further ado, let's see the best tried-and-tested ways to lock any door without a lock quickly and easily.Use a Wedge to Lock a Door. ... Lock a Door With a Fork. ... Put a Chair Under the Door Handle. ... Use a Belt to Lock a Door. ... Portable Door Lock: Extra Security In Seconds. ... Use a (Portable) Security Bar to Keep a Door Shut.More items...•

Is Schlage connect WiFi?

Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter The WiFi adapter is a simple wall plug-in that connects to your home WiFi signal, making it easy for you to set up. Then use the Schlage Home app to pair it with your deadbolt for access anywhere.

How secure are smart locks?

Smart locks from major developers, like Yale and Schlage, are reliable security devices -- but only if you use them correctly. In the same way a lo...

Why are smart locks so expensive?

Like most smart home tech, smart locks are getting more affordable all the time -- but that doesn't mean they're cheap. Between the conventional ha...

Can smart locks be hacked?

Smart locks, like any Wi-Fi-connected device, can be hacked. But as long as you're finding smart locks from reliable developers, the communications...

Are smart locks a bad idea?

While smart lock hacking isn't that big of a risk to your individual home's security, that doesn't mean smart locks pose no risks. Battery-powered...

What Is a Smart Door Lock?

After all, a smart lock costs a lot more than the standard-issue lock you can pick up at the local hardware store. A few smart locks cost around $100 (not many of which made this list), but if you want a lock that you can control from anywhere and that offers features such as voice commands; push and email notifications; and tamper alarms; expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $300.

How far away can you connect a smart lock to a router?

If the lock is Bluetooth enabled, you'll have to be within range (around 40 feet) to communicate with it, while locks with built-in Wi-Fi circuitry or a Wi-Fi bridge can be controlled from almost anywhere as long as they are connected to your home router. Make sure your smart lock offers activity logs so you can go back in time to see who has entered or exited your home and when the activity took place.

What is a Kwikset Halo smart lock?

The Kwikset Halo Touch Smart Lock lets you lock and unlock your door with your phone, voice, keys, and fingerprint.

What is Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro?

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is a multifaceted smart lock that lets you unlock your door with a fingerprint scan, a mobile app, a keypad, a voice command, or even a traditional key.

How long does it take to install a smart lock?

Either way, you can count on spending anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes removing your old lock and installing your new smart one.

What is an igloo lock?

The Igloohome Smart Padlock and the Tapplock one+ are Bluetooth-connected padlocks, for instance. They're built to be as tough as any standard lock, but use Bluetooth to unlock with the tap of a button when you're nearby. They also let you grant temporary or permanent guest access on your terms simply by using an app.

What is a connected lock?

Keys are so 20th century. A connected lock offers both security and flexibility, letting you control access to your home with your phone. And installation is easier than you think. Here's what you need to know and the best smart locks we've tested.

What Are Smart Locks?

Smart door locks, or electronic door locks, offer an added layer of home protection and include nifty automation features. A simple tap of your smartphone screen to secure your home, from anywhere in the world? Sounds too good to be true. But that’s the convenience and tech-forward innovation of today’s smart locks. It’s no wonder millions of Americans are ditching their old-fashioned keys for futuristic virtual keys.

What is a sesame smart lock?

Sesame smart locks are all about no-fuss installation. It fits over your existing deadbolt, making it the perfect solution for renters and the DIY crowd. These locks also offer smart home integration.

How many codes can a Kwikset lock accommodate?

And, they can accommodate up to 30 personalized codes. The Kwikset locks will also send you real-time alerts when someone accesses your home.

Why do Airbnb hosts use smart locks?

Hosts can now configure their doors with smart locks and touchpad technology. And they can grant and revoke access at the push of a button. This streamlines the check-in / check-out process and allows the host to manage their property remotely — without needing their neighbor Carl to personally deliver a key.

How much does Yale lock cost?

Yale has an enormous variety of locks, which includes smart locks, deadbolts, digital door viewers and more. Their keyless entry locks range from $99 to $299 each . They also have a new Assure Level lock coming out this spring in either a keypad option or capacitive touchscreen option.

How to keep a door lock from falling?

Extend the deadbolt fully. Apply tape to the outside of the door lock to keep it from falling when screws are loosened. Unscrew everything. Take out the internal deadbolt mechanism with the strike plate.

What is August lock?

August is the smart and affordable way to take control of your entryway.

What are the advantages of smart locks vs conventional deadbolts?

One huge advantage that you get with smart locks vs. conventional deadbolts is that you never have to carry a physical key.

How many times does a CR lock test?

They repeat the test eight times, with the ram raised to increasing heights or until the lock fails. The models that fail—at least half do—go through another round, this time with a reinforced box strike plate (a basic DIY upgrade that improves security) installed on a new lock sample.

Does the Eufy Smart Lock Touch work with the internet?

CR’s take: Out of the box, the Eufy Smart Lock Touch can’t connect to the internet for remote control. For that, you’ll need the Eufy WiFi Bridge, $46, sold separately at Amazon and Walmart. But even without the bridge, this lock still packs plenty of features and performs very well in our tests. It offers a fingerprint scanner, a touch-screen keypad for PINs, an access log to track who comes and goes, an auto-lock feature, and the ability to lock and unlock it from its smartphone app via Bluetooth when nearby. In our lab tests, this Eufy earns an Excellent rating for its resistance to kick-ins as sold. It’s very resistant to picking, too, but could be better at withstanding drilling. This lock also gets high scores for its convenience features and ease of setup.

Is Kwikset Aura 942 BLE a good lock?

CR’s take: The Kwikset Aura 942 BLE is a dependable Bluetooth-only smart lock offering strong performance in our kick-in and lock-picking tests. It receives a Very Good rating for ease of setup and connectivity, but its feature set is limited compared with other smart locks, result ing in low scores for our ease of remote access, security add-ons, and convenience tests. It features a keypad for up to 250 shareable PINs, an auto-lock feature, and the ability to lock and unlock from its smartphone app via Bluetooth when nearby.

Does August Smart Lock Pro work with Z-Wave Plus?

CR’s take: The retrofit August Smart Lock Pro offers a ton of smart features, including auto-locking and unlocking, voice control (via Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit/Siri, and Google Assistant), access logs, electronic keys, a door sensor (to tell if the door is closed, not just locked), and compatibility with Z-Wave Plus smart home hubs. The lock has remote access features, but you’ll need to buy it with the August Connect WiFi adapter, $79, to get those features as well as voice control. It earns an Excellent rating for convenience in our tests and is very easy to set up. If you’d like to use PINs with this lock, August sells a separate wireless keypad for $60.

Is Wyze a good lock?

CR’s take: The Wyze Lock is the first smart lock from this budget smart home company, and it performs quite well in our tests. It rates a Very Good for remote operation and scores high in our convenience and security add-on evaluations. Its features include auto-locking and unlocking, an access log, electronic keys, an integrated door sensor, voice control via Amazon Alexa (Google Assistant integration is supposedly in the works, but it’s been that way for over a year), and an alarm to let you know if the door is left open after a set amount of time. If you’d like to use PINs with this lock, Wyze sells a separate wireless keypad for $20.

What is a smart lock with a WiFi deadbolt?

As far as smart locks go, WiFi deadbolt locks are the ones that are best suited to help give its users remote access to the lock from any location in the world. This is not a universal trend for all WiFi deadbolts, but most of them have features that help their users accomplish this. Today I will be taking a look at some of the best WiFi deadbolt smart locks, and the features that help them achieve this. However, before I launch into that, I want to take some time to talk about WiFi deadbolts in general.

What is August smart lock?

Once paired with the bridge, the August smart lock allows you to remotely control your lock from any location.

What is a Lockitron?

The Lockitron gives its users access to the Lockitron Application Program Interface (API), which allows users to program some of the actions they want their lock to carry out. These programmable actions range from being able to lock and unlock your door, to revoking access to the lock. Essentially, not only does this WiFi deadbolt grant its users the ability to remotely control their lock, it also allows them to program, which in itself opens up a world of possibilities.

What is a wireless deadbolt?

A WiFi deadbolt should have the ability to wirelessly communicate with a wireless router. The purpose of a wireless router is to convert and transmit the signals it receives from either the lock or the smart device meant to control it. After all, wireless communication is the main draw of WiFi deadbolt locks.

What is a WiFi deadbolt lock?

A WiFi deadbolt lock, in its simplest terms, is a deadbolt lock that can be controlled to some degree by utilizing WiFi connectivity. These WiFi deadbolt locks are smart locks, and they are often the perfect blend of smart locks and traditional locks. Their affinity for WiFi connectivity is the one feature that sets a WiFi deadbolt apart ...

How does a lock increase oversight?

Increases the amount of oversight that homeowners have by issuing alerts and push notifications whenever the lock is accessed in any capacity. This ensures that homeowners are constantly aware of the way their lock is performing.

How many user codes can a lock hold?

The lock is capable of storing up to 1000 user codes, and is primarily geared homeowners who rent out their homes. These features of access control and remote monitoring increase the security that your home is afforded because it allows you to control access to your home while also monitoring the way it is accessed.

What is smart lock?

Smart locks, especially keypad models, are perfectly suited for rental-property and vacation-home owners, such as Airbnb host s, who tend to have to deal with frequent key exchanges (in fact, with some locks, Airbnb now offers to automate code creation for guests).

How do smart locks work?

Smart locks typically provide a few ways for a homeowner to trigger them, which may be any combination of using: a smartphone app; a code with a keypad; touch; wireless dongles; a fingerprint scanner; and using the wireless signals of your smartphone to determine your location—otherwise known as geofencing. The idea is that your smart lock is connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network, and then as you depart your home, your lock is made aware based on the fading signals of your smartphone—you have gone out of the invisible “fence” around your home. When you return, your smartphone’s various wireless connections—cellular, GPS, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi—serve as beacons that variously let your smart lock anticipate your return. With many smart locks, you can use that signal to automatically trigger your lock when you leave or arrive home.

What is a Flex Touch?

Lockly has released the Flex Touch, a low-profile deadbolt replacement model with a keyway and fingerprint reader. We hope to test it soon.

What is Schlage Encode?

The Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt is a trimmed and toned update to similar previous picks, the Schlage Connect and Schlage Sense, but with the clever ability to connect directly to your Wi-Fi without the need of a plug-in adapter. (Most smart locks, in contrast, use battery-friendly Bluetooth and then connect wirelessly to a plug-in adapter that allows them to connect to your Wi-Fi and accept remote control.)

How to connect Wyze smart lock?

Once you’ve secured it to your door, you pair the lock to the Wy ze app and then plug in and pair the included Wi-Fi adapter, which acts as the wireless go-between for your smartphone and lock when you aren’t within close proximity. In our tests, setup was delightfully hiccup free, with the mechanical and app components all connecting seamlessly.

How to unlock a U-Bolt Pro?

You can unlock the U-Bolt Pro six different ways, including with a numerical code, in an app, through a physical keyway, and—the pièce de résistance—via fingerprint. (To get the most out of the U-Bolt Pro, the $50 add-on Ultraloq Bridge, is essential as it allows for remote programming and control.) We found the feel and function of the lock’s rubber number buttons to be superior to pecking numbers on the glass touchscreen of many keypad models. That said, the fingerprint ID remains our preferred way to unlock it, and we’ve found this improved model is more responsive with few failed fingerprint scans. The U-Bolt Pro is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, but doesn’t work with Apple HomeKit or Samsung SmartThings.

What is Ultraloq U-bolt Pro?

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro (with Bridge) is a wonderful device, with some of the cleanest, most precise hardware we’ve ever tested and a pleasing low-profile design. This model has been updated (dubbed V2.0) with a number of improvements from the original we tested, including new buttons that work in temperatures down to -13F; a slightly smaller housing to better accommodate a greater variety of doors; an ANSI Grade 1 Schlage deadbolt; and the cabling is easier to tuck away.

What is the best smart lock for a house?

If you rent your home, the August Smart Lock is the best smart lock, as it’s very simple to install on top of an extant deadlock without replacing the cylinder or key. There’s no need to replace the cylinder; it will continue to work with your existing keys, keeping your landlord happy. And, when you move out, you can quickly and easily remove the lock and replace it with the old one, keeping your deposit safe.

Which is the best smart lock?

For those on a budget, the best smart lock is the August Smart Lock . It’s significantly cheaper than the Pro version, but has most of the same features, with the only major omission being Apple HomeKit support.

What is a premis keypad?

The Premis lets you enter your home using keys, a code, or via your smartphone. The low-profile keypad looks smart, but still offers a manual key option for the luddites in your house. And, it's available in a few styles and finishes.

What is smart lock?

A smart lock lets you create virtual keys and time-sensitive pass codes, so you control who can get into your house, and when — which makes them great for rental properties. It can also alert you whenever your door is locked and unlocked. And, smart locks can also connect to other smart home devices, so when you open your door, ...

What is a level bolt lock?

The Level Bolt smart lock distinguishes itself from all other smart locks in that, once installed, its mechanism is completely hidden from sight. That's because all of its workings fit neatly inside your door. So, not only does this mean you don't have to mar the appearance of your door with a gadget, but it also means that you're not advertising to others that you have a smart lock. And, because the Level Lock uses your door's hardware, you can still continue to use your keys to lock and unlock the door.

How much does an August smart lock cost?

You can pick up this smart, full-featured lock for less than $100.

What is the most common entry method for smart locks?

Keypads: The most common entry method; most smart locks will let you create and manage dozens, if not hundreds of keycodes. Virtual keys: This lets you send a virtual code to people, who can use the smart lock app on their phone to unlock your door. You can manage when these codes are active.

What is the smallest smart lock?

Many smart locks can add some serious bulk onto your door, but the Level Touch boasts being the smallest smart lock ever made. And, it just takes one look to see that it's significantly more compact than the competition. There's no big keypad or chunky housing to hold several large batteries.

How long do smart locks last?

You must, however, consider how long those batteries last. Some smart locks promise up to 19 months of battery life, while others consume those batteries within three months. It just depends on how power efficient the smart lock is designed.

How does Yale Assure lock work?

You can also set it up to automatically lock behind you. On the outside, you'll have a 10 digit keypad for entering the access code. But, you don't have to have just one access code. You can set up individual access codes to keep track of who's coming, and you can provide guests with their code that you can then revoke after their visit. With the Yale Assure Lever connected to your Wi-Fi, you can also control it remotely or have smart assistants lock and unlock it. In a pinch, you can also unlock the door with a key, but that shouldn't be a worry as the lock can alert you when the batteries are getting low.

How to control Schlage lock?

Once connected, you can control it using the Schlage Home app or the Key by Amazon app. This will give you remote control over the lock and let you set up access for guests. You can also set it up with the Amazon Cloud Cam to manage Amazon deliveries that can be set inside your door rather than out on your stoop. The Schlage Encode has some backup smarts, including the option to use a code to unlock or even simply a key if the Wi-Fi goes out or the battery dies, though the lock will warn you in advance if the battery is getting low.

Why does Alexa lock the door?

Smart home integration is mostly just for convenience and remote access – so you can tell Alexa to lock the door because you don’t want to get out of bed, for example, or so that you can open the door for a friend from your phone while you’re at work.

How much does August smart lock cost?

The August Smart Lock certainly comes at a more modest price, just $150 (or less with some of the discounts we’ve seen recently), but it’s still a feature-rich smart lock that’ll let you add plenty of modern convenience to your doors. The August Smart Lock can replace your doors existing, single-cylinder deadbolt.

Do smart locks replace deadbolts?

Smart locks often replace the deadbolt in your door, giving you a new lock that's not just smart but also strong.

What is the best smart lock?

The Ultralock UL3 smart lock is one of the best smart lock in the market now. It’s a revolutionary smart lock which has fingerprint recognition passcode, which is waterproof as well as dustproof. There are three ways to unlock this smart lock. This thing is designed to fit any usual doors and it can be installed in minutes which has 5 screws.

Why Smart Door Lock?

Whenever do you think about smart door lock the first thing that comes in your mind is that if it’s worth it? if it’s better than your current conventional door lock? or what’s wrong with your conventional door lock. Well, there’s nothing wrong with your conventional door lock but it happens so often, that kind of door lock can easily be broken by thieves. If you don’t want thieves to interfere with your life, with your house you must have a very secure front door for your house and a traditional door usually cannot make that happen.

Is smart lock right for everyone?

I would say smart locks are not actually right for everyone. There’s lot of different people with lot of choices. Some people prefer old styles, some like smart ways, want their life journey keeping up to date. So it depends on someone’s choice whether he/she wants it or not.

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