Best Smart Locks (2026)
The best smart lock for most people is the August Smart Lock Pro — it installs in minutes on your existing deadbolt, so you keep your original keys while adding app control, auto-lock, and smart home integration.
For cutting-edge hands-free entry, the Aqara Smart Lock U400 is the 2026 standout: it’s the first US smart lock with UWB (Ultra-Wideband), meaning your door unlocks as you approach — no tapping, no voice command, nothing.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Pick | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| August Smart Lock Pro | Best overall (retrofit) | ~$150 |
| Aqara Smart Lock U400 | Best tech / UWB | ~$230 |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best design + HomeKit | ~$180 |
| Schlage Encode Plus | Best built-in WiFi | ~$230 |
| Nest x Yale | Best for Google users | ~$250 |
| Kwikset Halo Touch | Best fingerprint | ~$160 |
| Eufy Smart Lock S230 | Best budget WiFi | ~$130 |
Best Overall: August Smart Lock Pro
The August Smart Lock Pro is the least disruptive way to go smart. It installs over your existing interior thumbturn in about 10 minutes — your outside knob or handleset stays unchanged, so your existing keys still work. This matters if you’re renting or want to keep a backup option. It supports Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, and the August Connect hub (included) adds remote access via WiFi.
The catch: It’s interior-only, so it won’t replace your entire lockset. And the app has been known to be finicky when adding new users.
Best Tech (UWB Hands-Free Entry): Aqara Smart Lock U400
The Aqara U400 is genuinely new technology: UWB lets your phone’s precise location data signal the lock to open as you walk up, without you having to take your phone out or say anything. Samsung Wallet Digital Home Key support was added in early 2026, making it the most advanced consumer smart lock available in the US. It also supports fingerprint, keypad code, NFC, and traditional key entry — so you’re never locked out if your phone dies.
The catch: Full installation replaces your entire lockset (not a retrofit) and requires installation time. UWB only works with iPhones 11+ or recent Samsung Galaxy models.
Best Design: Yale Assure Lock 2
Yale has the best-looking smart locks on the market — sleek, keyless touchscreen keypads that don’t look out of place on a modern front door. The Assure Lock 2 supports Apple HomeKit natively (rare in this category) and comes in multiple finishes.
Best Built-In WiFi: Schlage Encode Plus
The Schlage Encode Plus has WiFi built directly in — no bridge, no hub required. It’s also one of the strongest physically: Schlage locks are ANSI Grade 1 certified, the highest residential security standard. If physical strength is your top concern, Schlage is the pick.
How to Choose a Smart Lock
Retrofit vs full replacement? August-style locks install over your existing hardware — great for renters or anyone who wants to keep their existing key. Full-replacement locks (Schlage, Yale, Aqara) are more secure but require more installation work.
Do you need WiFi or a hub? WiFi-built-in: Schlage Encode Plus, Kwikset Halo Touch, Eufy S230. Hub required: August (needs August Connect), Yale (needs Yale Access or SmartThings).
What ecosystem are you in? Apple HomeKit: Yale Assure Lock 2, Schlage Encode Plus, Aqara U400. Google Home: August, Nest x Yale, Kwikset Halo. Amazon Alexa: August, Schlage, Kwikset, Eufy.