Smart Lock Buying Guide – 8 Features to Consider When Buying A Smart Lock

I think smart locks are definitely worth the investment, especially if you have a busy household with lots of people coming and going. I’m not saying traditional locks are bad, but as our lifestyles change and become more integrated with technology and automation, smart locks will make our lives easier and more convenient. 

Smart locks are much more practical than traditional key locks. They provide remote keyless entry using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. I love having smart locks, as they allow me to manage and control who has access to my workshop, garage, or house – all through my app! 

 

 

Now I get some people may be worried about the possibility of hacking. This comes down to picking a reliable brand —we trust Schlage for all our locks. They offer the highest level of encryption connectivity making it safer for you and your family against hackers. 

So, let’s break down some of the key features of a smart lock and what you should be looking for.

 

#1 – Technology and Connectivity

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When securing your home, exterior or entrance locks generally consist of the following:

• Deadbolt
• Electronic locks – non-connected and battery-operated. They allow for keyless access with a simple keypad or touchpad.
• Easy connectivity – electronic locks that integrate into a smart ecosystem by way of Zwave protocol.
• Bluetooth Smart Locks – access within close range of the lock
• Wi-Fi Smart Locks – remote access with a suite of features that are more experiential
• Key-Fob and fingerprint style (biometrics)

Most smart locks work with apps on your smartphone and are compatible with either iOS or Android platforms. This is an important factor to consider before deciding on your smart locks. You want to make sure it’s compatible with your devices. Also, be sure to read application reviews to make sure the experience will meet your expectations.

Today, we expect easy-to-use, user-friendly interfaces with fully functional features, like remote control access and monitoring capabilities. Many options are available, so doing your research and checking out several manufacturers can help ensure you are investing in smart locks that work for you.

I know my daughter Sherry has her hands full with two girls, and sometimes as she’s rushing out the door, she forgets whether she’s locked her door or not. So this is brilliant! 

 

#2 – Keyless Entry Options

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We’ve all spent time looking for our keys or losing and misplacing spare keys. Now, many smart locks have a keyless entry that allows you to open the door without a physical key by punching in a code on a keypad or using an app on your phone. And for those who feel more secure with a key, there is a traditional key and cylinder to open your door even with the keyless entry locks.

 

 

 

 

Because the smart lock is designed to work on standard single bore-hole doors, you can easily use it on your interior doors. This is an excellent option for the garage, side doors, home offices and guest suites – any door really that uses a knob or lever. And, of course, it provides another level of home security.

 

 

RELATED:

How to Choose and Install Door Hardware for Your Home

 

#3 – Security Features

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We all appreciate the convenience of smart technology. I know I do. But let’s face it: when it comes to our houses, we can’t sacrifice security for convenience. Understanding what security features to look out for should be your top priority when choosing a smart lock.

Make sure you consider these priorities when choosing a smart lock:  

• Are you purchasing from a reputable brand you can trust?
• Does the lock meet the highest standards from BMHA, the Builders Manufacturers Hardware Association measuring security, durability and finish? 
• Does it have the highest level of encryption to prevent hacking and provide peace of mind? 
• Is the smart lock user-friendly?
  
• Does it provide alert notifications remotely?
  
• Can you create unique access codes?
  
• Can you monitor all your smart locks from anywhere?

 

RELATED:

Your Safe Smart Home: Protecting Yourself from Hacks

 

Did You Know?

With the Encode Plus, even if the phone is dead you can still tap the lock to enter and it will work. That’s smart.

 

#4 – Integration with Smart Home Systems

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Some smart locks can easily work with your smart home. Schlage is compatible with all platforms. Their smart locks are compatible with Ring and allow you to see who is at the door and let them in, and your Apple devices are your key to the house when using Apple Home Kit. Voice commands are available using Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

 

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#5 – Power Options

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​​Traditional mechanical locks don’t need the power to function, so they continue to work even if the power goes out. However, smart locks run on batteries, so it is important to make sure the batteries don’t die. Make sure you pay attention to low battery life indicators. Also, it’s important to think about how your exterior smart lock performs in extreme conditions, given our cold winters. 

 

Expert Tip:

Consider replacing the batteries every six months to 8 months depending on the usage of your smart locks.

 

 

#6 – Installation and Compatibility

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When researching smart locks, you want a lock that is easy to install and has several compatibility options. Locks come with one, two, or three borehole options, which is another factor to consider.

I love Schlage because all their locks are easy to install, even the smart locks. All you need is a Phillips screwdriver. Any homeowner can install one – and I don’t often say that! The Schlage smart locks can be installed on any door and have a great selection of custom door hardware to go with any home décor. 

 

#7 – Guest Access and User Management

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My fans will remember Greg and Karen’s home from “The Half-Done House” on Holmes + Holmes. They thought they could trust the contractor but soon realized their renovation project was not going so well, and eventually, they fired the contractor. But they forgot to get the spare key back, and the contractor ended up coming back to the house at 10 O’clock at night to get some things he left unannounced with Karen and Greg’s young daughters in the house! How scary is that? 

 

 

 

Smart Locks Make It Easy for Homeowners to Manage Guests

• Homeowners can confirm if doors are locked or unlocked remotely.
• Homeowners can create up to 100 unique access codes
• Homeowners can access real-time activity logs
• Compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices
  

 

#8 – Durability and Design

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You want to pick a lock that lasts because they aren’t cheap. And you want to pick something that will make a statement and increase your curb appeal. First impressions matter! It’s not just about looks – your lock must be made of quality, durable materials like zinc, steel, and brass.

Pro Tip:

For smart locks to perform optimally, it’s important to keep up with any software updates and change the batteries regularly. Allow your lock to accept firmware updates automatically.

Smart locks and home automation are becoming an integral part of our homes, and selecting quality products, user-friendly systems, and compatibility should be top of mind when choosing smart locks.

 

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