In the rapidly evolving world of smart home technology, smart door locks are playing an increasingly important role. Not only do they offer a new level of convenience and security, they are also changing the way we interact with our homes. Whether it’s remotely controlling access, monitoring who comes and goes, or integrating with other smart home systems, smart door locks have become an essential part of the modern home. In this article, we’ll discuss the best smart door locks currently available on the market, taking into account factors such as security, ease of use, compatibility with other devices, and customer reviews. Whether you’re just taking your first steps into the world of smart home technology or looking to upgrade, this overview will help you make the best choice for your smart home. Remember, smart door locks work best when paired with smart doorbells.
What is a smart door lock?
A smart door lock is a modern, electronic lock that uses digital technology to unlock and lock doors, often without the need for a traditional physical key. Instead, users can control the lock via a smartphone app, PIN code, fingerprint scanner, or even voice control. Smart door locks can be integrated with other smart home devices, such as smart doorbells, security cameras, or smart lighting, for added convenience and security. Many of these locks offer the ability to manage access remotely, allowing you to open the door for guests while you’re away from home, or receive notifications when someone enters or leaves your home.
Why should I buy a Smart Door Lock?
- Convenience: A smart door lock lets you unlock and lock your door without a physical key. You can control the lock via a smartphone app, PIN code, or even voice commands, so you never have to search for your keys again
- Remote access control: A smart door lock lets you grant access to others remotely. Whether you’re at work or on vacation, you can let friends, family, or delivery services in without having to be home yourself.
- Enhanced security: Many smart door locks offer additional security features, such as notifications when someone enters or leaves the home, time-based access codes for guests, and even integration with security cameras and alarm systems.
- Integration with smart home systems: Smart door locks can often be paired with other smart devices in your home, such as a smart doorbell, security cameras, or lighting. This makes it easy to manage your entire home through a single app or voice assistant like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
- No worries about keys: With a smart door lock, the risk of lost or forgotten keys is a thing of the past. You can set access codes or biometric data, and if you lose your smartphone, you can easily restore access via another route.
- Personalization of access: Smart door locks allow you to set different access levels for different people, for example a permanent code for family members and a temporary code for a guest or cleaner.
Best Smart Door Lock 2024
In 2024, smart door locks are more advanced and secure than ever. With a wide range of features, such as remote access, biometric recognition, and seamless integration with other smart home devices, these locks offer greater convenience and security for your home. Whether you’re looking for a lock with the latest technology or a simple yet reliable model, there are options available to suit a variety of needs and budgets. In this guide, we’ll discuss the best smart door locks of 2024 so you can make an informed choice and equip your home with a state-of-the-art security system.
1. Nuki Keypad
The smart door locks from Nuki can be expanded with this Nuki Keypad on Bluetooth. This allows you to open the door even if you don’t have your smartphone with you. You can also leave your house key at home. The Nuki Keypad works with a PIN code and is compatible with every smart door lock from Nuki. You can manage the lock via the Nuki Smart Lock application.
- Suitable for: Cylinder lock
- Power type: Battery
- With application: Yes
- Material: Plastic
- With fingerprint: No
- Works on wifi: No
- With pin code: Yes
Pros
- No smartphone or key needed: Open and close your door easily with an access code.
- Easy installation: The keypad can be quickly mounted with adhesive strips or screws, without cables.
- Security: 6-digit access code and encrypted communication for maximum security.
- Suitable for multiple users: Store up to 99 different codes, ideal for families or businesses.
Cons
- Battery dependent: The keypad works on batteries, which need to be replaced regularly.
- No smart home integration: The keypad does not work with voice control or smart home platforms.
- No quality mark: The product does not have official safety marks such as SKG.
2. LOQED Touch Smart Lock Zwart
Stylish Touch Smart Lock from LOQED. This smart door lock is compatible with Google Assistant, Home Assistant and Homey. The SKG *** door lock can be operated with a pin code, a remote control or via the application. Your phone automatically connects as soon as you come near the lock. A key or code is therefore no longer necessary. This smart door lock has an indoor and outdoor sensor, a timer function and a bridge. In addition, this smart door lock also has an activity log and an open house mode.
- Suitable for: Cylinder loc
- Power type: Battery and rechargeable battery
- With application: Yes
- Material: Metal
- With fingerprint: No
- Works on wifi: Yes
- With pin code: Yes
Pros
- Touch to Open: Open the door easily without keys, by touching it.
- Backup code access: Always inside with a PIN code when your phone is dead.
- Security: SKG three-star certificate and 256-bit encryption.
- Ease of use: Remote management via the app.
- Easy installation: Quick to install without drilling.
- Emergency power option: Use a 9-volt battery when batteries are empty.
- Smart home integration: Works with Google Assistant, Alexa and more
Cons
- Battery dependency: Regular replacement required.
- No voice control: Does not support direct voice control.
- High price: Premium product with optional extra costs.
- Not suitable for surface-mounted locks: Not compatible with older locks.
3. LOQED Touch Smart Lock Metaal
The LOQED Touch Smart Lock is an innovative and completely keyless door lock that opens your door with a simple touch. Thanks to the ‘Touch to Open’ technology, you never have to search for your keys again; your phone stays in your pocket while it connects to the lock via Bluetooth. With additional safety sensors, code access as a backup, and integration with smart home systems, the LOQED lock offers a combination of convenience and maximum security. Installation is easy and requires no drilling. The lock comes with an SKG three-star cylinder, which meets the highest security standards.
Pros
- Keyless: Open by touch, no more keys needed.
- Security: SKG three-star certificate and 256-bit encryption.
- Code access: Backup option if your phone runs out of power.
- Smart home integration: Compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa and more.
- Easy installation: No drilling required, fits most European doors.
Cons
- Battery dependency: Batteries need to be replaced or charged regularly.
- No voice control: No direct voice control available.
- Price: Relatively expensive compared to other smart locks.
4. Igloohome Retrofit
The Igloohome Retrofit lock turns your existing door lock into a smart lock without having to make any adjustments to the outside of your door. The lock is easily mounted on the inside of your door without drilling and offers the benefits of a keyless system. You can operate it via the app, a remote control, a pin code or an RFID tag. With the Igloohome Bridge you can track real-time access activities for additional security.
- Suitable for: Cylinder lock
- Power type: Batteries
- With application: Yes
- Material: Plastic
- With fingerprint: No
- Works on wifi: No
- With pin code: No
Pros
- Easy installation: No drilling required, mounts on the inside of the door.
- Keyless system: Control via app, PIN code, remote control or RFID tag.
- No external changes: Maintain the original look of your door.
- Compatibility: Works with existing cylinder locks.
Cons
- No smart home integration: The lock does not work with smart home platforms.
- Battery dependent: Regular battery replacement is required.
- No voice control: The lock does not support voice control via assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant.
5.Bold Smart Lock Cilinder SX-63 – Slim deurslot – RVS – Zilver
The Bold Smart Lock offers a keyless solution that allows you to easily open your door via an app or PIN code. With a quick and easy installation, without any modifications to wiring, you will be ready in minutes. The lock offers maximum security thanks to the Duracode construction and SKG*** certification. Even without a phone, you can open the door with a PIN code, and the auto-activation function automatically unlocks the lock when you approach.
Pros
- Easy installation: Installed within three minutes without wiring.
- Maximum security: Secured with SKG*** quality mark and Duracode construction.
- Keyless: Operation via app or PIN code, with automatic unlocking.
- PIN code backup: Even without a phone, you can open the door with a PIN code.
- Temporary access: You can grant others temporary access via the app.
Cons
- No voice control: The lock does not support voice control via assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Battery dependency: Batteries must be replaced regularly.
- No direct internet connection: The lock cannot connect to the internet independently without additional accessories such as the Bold Clicker.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing the ideal smart door lock for your home, there are several crucial features to consider. These features not only determine the operational efficiency of the lock, but also its compatibility with your lifestyle and living environment. Below, we cover these essential aspects:
Connectivity
The way your smart lock connects to your home network and other devices is crucial. Options include:
- Wi-Fi: Allows remote access from anywhere, but can consume more power.
- Bluetooth: Provides local connectivity, which is energy efficient but limited in range.
- Z-Wave/Zigbee: Requires a compatible hub, but increases connectivity and integrates seamlessly with a wide range of smart home devices.
Access Methods
Versatility in access methods adds convenience and ensures you’re never locked out.
- Keypad: Enter a unique code to gain access, making it easy to share with guests.
- Mobile App: Remotely unlock your door, manage access codes, and receive notifications.
- Voice Control: Use voice commands via smart assistants for hands-free control.
- Fingerprint Recognition: Provides the highest level of personal security and fast access.
Compatibility
Ensure that the smart lock integrates smoothly with your existing smart home system and voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. This integration allows for coordinated actions, such as turning on lights when the door is unlocked.
Security
Advanced security features are paramount to protect against unauthorized access.
- Encryption Standards: Look for locks that use bank-level encryption to secure data transmission.
- Built-in Alarms: Alerts you to attempted break-ins or tampering.
- Auto-lock Functionality: Automatically locks the door after a set period of time, providing peace of mind.
Battery Life
Since smart locks are battery powered, it is essential to understand their lifespan and receive timely notifications when the battery is low to prevent lockouts.
- Average Lifespan: Most smart locks offer a battery life that ranges from a few months to a year, depending on usage.
- Low Battery Notifications: Make sure the lock provides early warnings via the app or visually on the device itself.
Design and Durability
The appearance and build quality of a lock should not be overlooked. It should match the aesthetic appearance of your door and be able to withstand environmental factors.
- Aesthetics: Choose a design that complements your door and the style of your home.
- Weather and Tamper Resistance: Look for durable materials and weather resistance ratings to ensure the lock can withstand extreme temperatures, rain, and manual manipulation.
By prioritizing these key features, you can select a smart door lock that not only enhances your home security but also integrates seamlessly with your lifestyle, worthy of
Integrating Smart Door Locks with Home Security Systems
Smart door locks not only provide convenience and remote access, but they can also seamlessly integrate with home security systems to enhance the overall safety of your home. This integration allows various smart devices and security features to work together, resulting in a more efficient and secure home environment.
How does the integration work?
By connecting a smart door lock to your home security system, you can, for example:
- Automatic locking and unlocking: When your security system is armed or disarmed, your smart lock can respond automatically. This means that your door will automatically lock when the alarm is activated, or unlock when you come home and disarm the alarm.
- Notifications and monitoring: You can receive real-time notifications via your smartphone app when someone opens or closes the door. In addition, these activities are recorded, so you always have an overview of who has accessed your home and when.
- Integrated alarm systems: In the event of suspicious activity, such as attempts to force the door open, the door lock can trigger an alarm that is integrated into your security system. This can work in combination with sirens, security cameras and motion sensors to form a complete security network.
Benefits of Integration
- Increased Security: Synchronization between your smart lock and alarm system allows for coordinated security measures, such as automatically locking when you leave your home.
- Convenience and Remote Control: Through a single app, you can manage both your smart door lock and your security system, allowing you to keep an eye on your home from wherever you are.
- Smart Automations: Integration allows you to set up automations, such as turning on security cameras and outdoor lights when the door is unlocked.
How secure are smart locks?
Smart locks are designed with advanced technology to provide both convenience and security. However, the level of security can vary depending on the model and technology used. Here are some key factors that determine how secure a smart lock is:
- Encryption: Most smart locks use strong encryption, such as 256-bit encryption, which is also used in the banking industry. This protects the communication between the lock and your smartphone or other control device, making it difficult for unauthorized access.
- Security certifications: Some smart locks, such as those with an SKG*** quality mark, meet the highest security requirements. This certificate indicates that the lock is resistant to break-in attempts and meets the strictest standards for mechanical security.
- Physical security: In addition to digital protection, high-quality smart locks often come with drill protection, steel components, and other physical barriers to protect the lock from brute force.
- Temporary and limited access: Smart locks allow you to grant temporary access to others, such as guests or maintenance personnel, without having to share physical keys. This access can be easily revoked or adjusted via an app, providing greater control and security.
- Built-in alarms: Some smart locks are equipped with alarm systems that are activated in the event of tampering or unusual activity, which can deter burglars.
- Auto-lock functionality: Smart locks can automatically lock after a set time, so you never have to worry about accidentally leaving the door open.
Potential risks:
- Hacking: Although smart locks are well protected with encryption, there is always a risk of hacking. It is important to regularly update your smart lock with the latest software to minimize vulnerabilities.
- Battery dependency: Smart locks are battery powered, so if the battery dies and you have not set up a passcode or backup options, you may be locked out.
- Bluetooth vulnerabilities: Some older Bluetooth models may have security holes, but modern locks use improved Bluetooth encryption to prevent this.
FAQs
1. Why are smart locks so expensive?
Smart locks are more expensive due to their advanced technology, enhanced security features, higher quality materials, and ease of integration with smart home systems. These factors together contribute to their higher cost compared to traditional locks.
2. Can smart locks be hacked?
Yes, smart locks can be hacked, just like any device that uses wireless communication or is connected to the internet. However, the likelihood and ease of hacking depends on several factors, including the security measures of the lock (such as encryption standards), the strength of your home network security, and whether the device’s firmware is regularly updated. Reputable smart lock manufacturers invest heavily in security features to minimize these risks. It is crucial to follow digital security best practices, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication when available, and regularly updating your devices, to further reduce the chances of your smart lock being hacked.
3. Are Smart Locks Risky?
Smart locks, like any technology, come with certain risks, but these are often weighed against the benefits of convenience and enhanced security features. Risks can include digital vulnerabilities such as hacking and cyberattacks, especially if the lock or home network is not adequately secured.
However, reputable smart lock manufacturers implement advanced security measures such as strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular software updates to minimize these risks. Regularly updating the lock’s firmware, using strong and unique passwords, and securing the home network can help to mitigate many of these risks.
While no system is completely invulnerable, careful selection, proper maintenance, and following good security practices can significantly reduce the risk associated with smart locks. It is important to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and decide what best suits your specific needs and security requirements.
4. Are smart locks difficult to install?
The difficulty of installing smart locks can vary depending on the model and existing door hardware, but many smart locks are designed to be easy to install for the average do-it-yourselfer.
