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Best Smart Locks 2024: Reviews And Buying Advice
No smart home is complete without a smart lock. They represent the biggest improvement to home security since the lock-and-key system was invented more than a thousand years ago. In many cases, smart locks dispense with physical keys altogether in favor of PINs, fingerprints, NFC devices, and apps. They deliver lots of other benefits, too.
Most smart locks have logging systems, so you can keep track of who's coming and going–and when. That's incredibly useful whether you have a teenager who tends to break curfew or merely want to give temporary access to houseguests, service providers, or Airbnb guests. Smart locks are an incredible upgrade over the old way of doing things. These are our top picks in several categories.
Why you should trust usTechHive's editors and contributors have been testing smart locks since the very first models came to market, and we continuously evaluate the latest models along with their accompanying apps. We've tested keyless smart locks, retrofit locks, locks with keypads, Bluetooth-only locks, locks that support geofencing, and more. You can trust us to guide you to the right smart lock for your needs.
Updated November 14, 2024: We've added links to our news story on the availability of a Matter-enabling firmware update for the Level Lock+ and to our Aqara Smart Lock U300 review.
Our top picks for smart locksLevel Lock+ Connect — Best smart lock overall
Pros
Cons
Price When Reviewed: $349.00 (Level Lock+ and the Level Connect Wi-Fi bridge)
Why we like the Level Lock+ ConnectNow bundled with the Level Connect Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge, the Level Lock+ Connect is fully compatible with all three of the major smart home platforms: Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit (including Apple's "home key" NFC tech), and Google Home. The inclusion of the bridge also erases the biggest cons we had for this minimalist lock that looks as good as it operates. It remains our highest-rated smart lock–there is nothing better on the market today–and it could get even better when its Thread radio is activated, adding Matter compatibility.
Who should buy the Level Lock+ ConnectWhile the Level Lock+ Connect is now compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home, we believe Apple users will have the best experience with this lock. The arrival of Matter compatibility will presumably iron out the kinks for Alexa and Google Home users, but Level's promised Matter update (the lock is Matter-certified, but its Thread radio is still dormant).
Read our full Level Lock+ (Level Connect bridge included) reviewKwikset Halo Touch — Best mainstream smart lock
Pros
Cons
Price When Reviewed: $249
Why we like the Kwikset Halo TouchKwikset has finally gotten into the biometrics game with the launch of the Halo Touch smart lock, and the lock benefits from a handsome exterior design, easy installation, a basic but fully-featured app, and–best of all–an effective, fast, and accurate fingerprint scanner.
Who should buy the Kwikset Halo TouchHey, we get it. Not everyone wants to spend big bucks on the absolute best product in any given category. That's why we've made a distinction here between "best mainstream" (the Kwikset Halo) and "best overall" (the Level Lock+). The Kwikset's lock isn't compatible with Apple's HomeKit ecosystem, but it doesn't depend on a separate bridge to connect to your Wi-Fi network and it costs $110 less than Level's offering–which doesn't have a fingerprint reader.
Read our full Kwikset Halo Touch reviewWyze Lock Bolt — Best budget-priced smart lock
Pros
Cons
Price When Reviewed: $69.99 + shipping
Why we like the Wyze Lock BoltAt $70, Wyze Labs' Lock Bolt Bluetooth smart lock is dirt cheap compared to what the rest of the smart lock industry has to offer. Even better, it even includes a few features even advanced smart locks tend to miss. Installation is easy, you can create temporary PIN codes from anywhere, a fingerprint reader is included (a rarity at this price), and best of all, the lock worked flawlessly during our testing process.
Who should buy the Wyze Lock BoltIf you can do without Wi-Fi connectivity, the Wyze Lock Bolt is a phenomenal value for a full-fledged smart lock (this isn't just a retrofit device), especially given that it includes a fingerprint reader. Just be aware that as a Bluetooth-only device, the Wyze Lock Bolt lacks support for geofencing, voice commands, or integrations with broader smart home ecosystems. Still, this lock is a great value for the money.
Read our full Wyze Lock Bolt reviewLevel Bolt Connect — Best retrofit smart lock
Pros
Cons
Price When Reviewed: $229
Why we like the Level BoltLevel Home's Level Bolt Connect is our favorite retrofit smart lock, thanks in large measure to its ability to disappear. The smart components of the Bolt hide inside your door, where they replace the interior mechanical elements of your existing deadbolt. You re-attach your existing interior and exterior components, so that your door's overall aesthetic doesn't change in the least.
Who should buy the Level BoltNow that it comes bundled with the Level Connect Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge, the Level Bolt Connect is compatible with all three of the major smart home ecosystems–Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home–making it a great choice for those looking to retrofit their locks regardless of their smart home platform.
Read our full Level Bolt reviewLockly Vision Elite — Most sophisticated smart lock
Pros
Cons
Price When Reviewed: $499.99
Why we like the Lockly Vision EliteLockly's $500 Vision Elite is the most expensive smart lock we've tested, but its mountain of features and solid operation make it worth consideration. You should also take into consideration that it eliminates the need for a video doorbell, and that it features both a numeric keypad, a fingerprint reader, and a conventional key cylinder. It is the most sophisticated smart lock we've seen, but it's hard to hide all of its features behind a pretty facade. It's also very expensive.
Who should buy the Lockly Vision EliteYou'll need deep pockets to afford the Lockly Vision Elite, but it does double as a video doorbell, so it's a great choice if you don't already have a doorbell installed. The Lockly Vision Elite is also ideal if you prefer unlocking your door using a fingerprint reader.
Read our full Lockly Vision Elite reviewAs you've doubtless realized by now, not all smart locks are made alike. Some smart locks are designed to completely replace an old "dumb" lock, while others are meant to retrofit an existing lock. Some smart locks will let you create PINs for guests, while others can unlock automatically once you cross a virtual geofence. Here's a guide to some of the key design options and features in the smart lock category.
Smart home hub integrationIf you have an existing hub like the Wink Hub 2, Samsung SmartThings, or an Apple TV, you'll want to ensure your chosen smart lock is compatible from the start. Many smart locks support Bluetooth, so they work with your phone, but lack the technology needed to connect with your home network.
Some Bluetooth locks, like the Yale Assure system and the August Smart Lock, offer a radio module as an add-on to connect to your home network. If you're using a smart home hub like the Samsung SmartThings or Wink Hub, look for a lock that supports Z-Wave or Zigbee, instead.
Then there's Matter, the new smart home standard that promises to unite the major smart home ecosystems. The good news is that smart locks are included in the Matter specification; the bad news is that for now, only a few Matter-enabled smart locks are available. We look forward to checking out more Matter smart locks in the weeks and months ahead.
Entry meansFrom apps and keypads to fingerprint readers and good, old-fashioned keys, there are myriad ways to unlock a smart lock. Make sure to pick a model that supports the entry method (or methods) you prefer.
Power backupWhat do you do if the batteries inside the lock die—and you're stuck outside? Some locks allow for emergency power to be applied should this happen. Yale's Real Living locks feature external posts to which you can connect a 9-volt battery, giving you enough juice to get the door open. Other models retain the traditional key cylinder for backup.
GeofencingBad about manually locking the door when you leave? A geofencing system automatically locks the door when it detects your phone has left the vicinity, and can be set to automatically open up when it finds you've come home.
Guest access featuresMost smart locks let you set up temporary keys for houseguests, which you can delete when they've returned home. Smarter systems even let you set time restrictions around when each access code can be used.
Frequently asked questions about smart locks 1. What benefits do smart smart locks deliver?You can thank the hospitality industry for finally pushing locks into the digital age. Hotels learned long ago that keys are easily lost, expensive to replace, and simple to bypass, as thieves can pick locks or simply make copies of a key to allow for unfettered future access.
On the flipside, hotel guests have readily accepted key cards (and in some cases, smartphone-based solutions) as the primary means of getting into their room. The electronic solution is just so much simpler. Lost hotel key card? Replacing it is no big deal.
But the biggest benefit of electronic entry systems is that they are highly configurable. Digital locks can be changed at a moment's notice (which is why that old hotel key card in your wallet isn't good for anything), and the property owner can generate a record of when each door was opened.
In a more advanced setting, different keys can be generated for the same lock, so a homeowner can tell when each member of the family came in, or when the housekeeper arrived.
2. How do you pick a smart lock? (No pun intended)This is a young and wildly immature space, and many products on the market are still extremely rough around the edges. Even top products can balk when dealing with old or stiff deadbolts, doors that don't shut well, or environments where non-standard fixtures are in use.
The bottom line is that it's tough to declare that any product is universally perfect for every home. That said, here are some key considerations to take into account to help you narrow down your shopping list.
3. Are some smart locks smarter than others?Some "smart locks" don't work with a smartphone app or any smart home networking hubs at all; they're really just electronic locks that use a code instead of a key to open up.
One step up from that, you'll find Bluetooth-only locks. These work with a smartphone app, but can't be monitored remotely or via a smart home system. That's fine if you're looking to get rid of the keys in your pocket, but less impressive if you want to make your entrance portals a true part of your home network.
Finally, there are full-on smart locks that connect to your smart home system via Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Wi-Fi.
4. Do I need to completely replace my old lock to install a smart lock?You're forgiven if you don't want to replace your antique doorknob on your vintage Victorian with a metallic device that looks like it would be more at home keeping people out of a strip mall bank branch.
A sizeable number of smart lock products don't require you to replace all your existing hardware. Instead, they are installed on the inside of the door only, replacing only the interior part of the deadbolt. You can continue to use a standard key from the outside or open the lock via a smartphone app.
Other notable smart locks we've reviewedWe've evaluated many other smart locks. If none of our top picks check all the boxes for you, take a look at these other products. We've also listed some smart locks that you should avoid.
Best Android Pattern Lock Remover Software Free Download
When you forget the pattern lock on your Android device, it becomes a real headache. For some, relying on their smartphones for everything from communication to banking can be a massive setback in such scenarios. But, there are ways that can help you unlock Android pattern without having to reset your device. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use pattern unlock software.
In today's article, we will explore how to unlock pattern lock without losing data and the best Android pattern lock remover for free download. These tools will assist you in unlocking your phone in a matter of seconds. It doesn't matter if you have forgotten your pattern or bought a second-hand device that has a lock. These software solutions will help you unlock the device.
Part 1: Can You Remove Pattern Lock on Android?You can certainly unlock Android pattern lock. There are several mobile pattern unlock software to remove pattern locks for users. It can disable the lock screen of your phone efficiently, making it possible again for you to use your smartphone. However, it is necessary to select apps that are trustworthy and secure to make sure your private information is not compromised, says Ask.
Part 2: What's the Best Android Pattern Lock Remover Software?When looking for the best Android pattern lock remover software for free download, there are a few factors to bear in mind. Because, with it, you will not only be able to remove the lock but also ensure that all your data is safe. As a result, here are some features to consider when looking for an Android pattern lock removal app:
Reliable
Reliability comes first. You should look for software that has already been tried by others. Other consumers of the software may write reviews that can assist you to assess the efficiency of the software in removing pattern locks.
Compatibility
The best software supports a wide range of Android devices/OS versions, regardless of the model of your phone. The software should work quite resourcefully while removing the pattern lock.
Success Rate
Always go for software that has a high success rate because that indicates that the program is able to successfully remove the pattern lock for its users.
Ease of Use
The interface must be easy to use, especially for those who are not knowledgeable in technical matters. Any software, on the other hand, should have simple guidelines or simpler steps.
Speed
In most cases, when one is locked out of their phone, it becomes very important for an individual to get back to the phone as soon as possible. Therefore, one should always go for applications that reduce the time taken for unlocking the phone.
Data Safety
Data safety is one of the most important characteristics. This application must unlock the pattern without losing data such as pictures, messages, any personal files, etc.
Free Download
We believe that testing out an application before paying for it is the most crucial factor. With this in mind, the best Android pattern lock remover should be free download, this allows users to try out the App.
Extra Features
Further, extra features can also significantly increase the worth. For instance, the software will not only unlock pattern locks but also serves to remove any kind of screen lock, restore information, and even fix the issues with the OS.
Part 3: How to Free Download Android Pattern Lock Remover Software and Unlock Android Pattern?First things first – you will need a reliable Android pattern lock remover software to unlock your device. One of the well established software products is iToolab UnlockGo Android. This software provides an easy to use interface to unlock pattern lock without losing data. You can download it directly from the website for free by clicking on the free trial version button.
Here are some of the main features of iToolab UnlockGo Android:
If you want to unlock your Samsung device's pattern lock without erasing the data using iToolab UnlockGo Android, then follow these steps:
Step 1: Download iToolab UnlockGo Android and install it on your computer. Then, run it.
Step 2: Connect your Samsung phone to the computer and click on the "Remove Screen Locks-Unlock Samsung without data loss" option.
Step 3: Click "Start" on the screen. Then, on the next screen, choose the name and model of your device. Make sure that this information is accurate to prevent any potential errors in the unlocking process.
Step 4: iToolab UnlockGo Android will download the data package it requires. When done, hit "Next" to continue.
Step 5: Follow the on-screen prompts to enter Download Mode. When finished, press the "Start" button to proceed.
Step 6: Once you enter Download Mode, UnlockGo Android will start removing the pattern lock. It might take few minutes to complete this process.
Hot Questions: Is There a Universal Unlock Pattern for Android? The answer is no; There is no such universal unlock pattern for Android devices. But there are some patterns that are often used," including simple shapes like L, Z, and straight lines. They are typically used for ease of remembering, but the drawback is that they are more vulnerable to guessing. It is best to use something a little more complicated and unique for security, although the University of Bath says most phone locks can be broken into in just a few attempts.
The TakeawayWith the appropriate software, unlocking an Android pattern lock is an easy task. When you have the best software solution, you can easily unlock pattern without losing data. In order to bypass the lock, choose a reliable and compatible solution for fast and safe code unlocking. Following these steps will allow you to get back to using your device with minimal hassle and maximum safety.
Last Updated: December 13, 2024
How To Lock IPhone / IPad Apps With Face ID Or Passcode
A handy app-specific security feature is available for iPhone and iPad that requires authentication with Face ID or a passcode before a chosen app can be launched. Essentially this lets you lock any iPhone or iPad app with Face ID or a passcode, and this lock applies even if your iPhone or iPad is already unlocked in general. Features like this are quite popular with security and privacy advocates, but are also useful for the average iPhone and iPad user too for many different scenarios.
The app lock feature works with both Face ID and with a Passcode, so whichever authentication method you use on iPhone or iPad you will find this available. If you are not familiar with how this feature works, read along and you'll quickly find out how simple it is to enable and lock apps on your device.
You must have iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 or newer to have access to the app lock feature. Here's how it works:
You can repeat this process to lock down as many apps as you want or need to on your device. Again, this is a secondary layer of protection for specific apps, aside from the broader device protection available through Face ID or a passcode (and yes you can use all iPhone devices without Face ID if you don't want to use that feature for any reason).
While this is useful as an additional security mechanism, it also can be helpful for parents, grandparents, and others who want to be able to lock down specific apps so that they can't be used on a device. Plus, with app lock enabled, you could unlock an iPhone or iPad and then let someone else use the device, knowing that particular apps are protected and locked down.
How can you remove the app lock on iPhone or iPad?Removing the app lock is just as easy as enabling app lock. Just tap and hold on the locked down app, and from the pop-up contextual menu choose "Don't Require Face ID" or "Don't Require Passcode", depending on your specific device security settings.
What do you think of the app lock feature available on iPhone and iPad? Will you use this feature to lock down specific apps for additional protection? Where do you see the best use case scenario is for this type of security feature? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
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