How we chose the top Bluetooth Door Lock
Bluetooth smart locks are some of the most popular locks in the market due to their integration with your smart phone and range perfect for a single home or apartment.
Bluetooth Lock Pros
- Already enabled on your smart phone with no additional hubs needed.
- Has an OK range of around 50 feet (Bluetooth 5 will have up to 4x the range) but this is all dependent on your specific house, etc.
- If you are concerned about security the shorter range can be a positive in that someone needs to be physically close to your house for any network snooping/access.
Bluetooth Lock Cons:
- You will not be able to remotely monitor and control your lock from long distances without an add-on accessory. A Wi-fi or Z-Wave enabled lock will be a better fit for you if you want this feature.
- Range can be a problem in certain houses.
- You will not be able to remotely monitor and control your lock from long distances without an add-on accessory. A Wi-fi or Z-Wave enabled lock will be a better fit for you if you want this feature.
- Range can be a problem in certain houses.
What is the best Bluetooth enabled smart lock to buy?
The smart lock market has a large range of options and configurations to choose from ranging from door fit and installation to making sure it works well with other smart home devices and your phone. But which one should you buy? Here are the main points to consider when shopping for a new lock for your door, as well as the best smart locks we've tested.
Our Quick Picks
Short on time? Here our some of our favorite picks based on some common filters for people in the market.
Things to consider
Your door Fit
One of the first things to consider before falling in love with one particular model is to make sure it fits with your door in size and lock type.
Locks typically come in a few standard configurations
- Attach on your deadbolt (only 1 model on the market is like this)
- Interior deadbolt replacement where on the outside your door looks the same but the interior deadbolt section controls the lock and is replaced
- Complete deadbolt replacement
- Handle / Lever / Knob replacement where you only have one hole on your door
- Integrated lock where your deadbolt and handle are in one mechanism where they lock but are separated on the door
- Mortise - a fully integrated system
You can click on the images below to filter down the Bluetooth door locks that fit each particular door type.
Access Codes
If you are looking for the ability to add access codes for your kids and guests or to make sure the delivery gets into your home safely there are several options these locks accomplish this.
Some have them built-in and will include either push buttons or commonly a touchscreen that will light up as you approach.
The other option is to add a keypad accessory that is installed next to your door and communications to the lock.
The third is via the locks smart phone app which can act as a key for other users.
One thing to keep in mind is with a Bluetooth lock you will only be able to add codes when you are near the door and not remotely. If you are looking to manage your codes from a long distance you will want a lock that has either Wi-Fi built in or connects with a hub that does so that it can connect to your home router.
Integration with smart home ecosystems
Do you already have an Alexa, Apple TV or a smart home hub in your home?
Many of the smart locks on the market let you:
- Check status of your lock from your phone
- Lock and unlock the door using voice control
- Have your lock be a part of a "recipe" like a good night mode that turns off lights, locks door and sets security system.
Click on the buttons below to filter the Bluetooth locks by each of their compatible systems.
Additional Smart Lock Features
Smart locks also come with a range of other features that could be the deciding factor for your purchase.
Remote Locking
Check or manage your lock while away from your home
Most of the time Bluetooth connectivity is not going to be the best option for you if you want this out of the box without having to purchase an additional bridge device or smart home hub.
At the moment only one lock has the ability to generate and manage keys remotely without an additional device.
Proximity Locking
Automatically lock behind you or unlock as you approach
With this feature you can have your door automatically lock behind you after a certain amount of time (typically 30 seconds) or have it use your phone's GPS and Bluetooth to automatically unlock the door as you approach.
Fingerprint or Touchscreen
Use your fingerprint to open your door or a touchscreen
With this feature you can either open the door using an access code and a back-lit touchscreen or your fingerprint to securely open your doors.
Bluetooth Lock Comparison
AKASO Smart Lock
Finish Options: Black
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth
iOS App: Yes
Android App: Yes
- The auto lock feature automatically locks the door after 30 seconds whenever someone enters or leaves the building.
- The deadbolt feature prevents access from outside until it is securely released from the inside – a valuable security perk.
- “Low battery” alerts so you never run out of charge (if you do a backup 9v recharge system allows you to get in).
- Can use physical key or codes to get in
- Built-in intrusion alarm will sound during any lock tampering.
- The locking mechanism can be buggy and inconsistent, meaning the door sometimes remains unlocked.
- Access codes do not always work properly.
- Poor customer service means that problems can take a long time to resolve.
- Users must be within Bluetooth range of the lock to adjust any settings.
- No Wifi Access for remote locking from a distance.
- Lack of integrations with smart home ecosystems
- Uses 3rd part app
This AKASO model comes with all the standard smart lock features, including a 9V backup battery and smart key support. Mechanically the lock is strong and robust, and it’s very pleasing on the eye with its sleek black touchscreen surface.
Unfortunately, app integration is poor and secure codes sent to users don’t always work, and you can only change codes when you are within Bluetooth range making it unreliable for remote use.
Despite its mid-range price point, the lock suffers too many bugs to be a favorite over its similarly-priced rivals. If AKASO focuses on app integration and access code improvements, we could see a very polished product for their next release.
Danalock V3
Finish Options: Nickel
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Via Bridge/Hub, Z-Wave Plus, and Zigbee
Siri Support: Yes with add-on hub
Alexa Support: Yes
iOS App: Yes
Android App: Yes
- Four tailored versions for integration with popular smart home hubs: HomeKit & Bluetooth, Z-Wave & Bluetooth, Zigbee & Bluetooth, and Bluetooth-only.
- Simple installation and calibration, with extensive documentation to speed things up.
- A range of smart features including auto-unlock, twist assist, and geofencing
- Estimated 12 months battery life.
- Can be paired with the Danapad, a manual keypad enabling keyless entry for visitors – without downloading an app.
- Remote locking with versions that have Z-Wave or Zigbee and future integration with their to be released DanaBridge.
- No remote controlling options, though this should be corrected when the Danabridge V3 Plug launches this year.
- No native compatibility with Google Home or Amazon Alexa.
- Loud noise during locking and unlocking.
- Homekit version does not support auto-unlock or digital key sharing features.
The Danalock V3 is a good all-rounder in the smart lock game. There are four versions (Homekit, Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Bluetooth-only) so you can align it with your smart home setup. It takes 10 minutes to install, and the auto-unlock and twist-assist features make it feel truly ‘smart’. Danalock supports unlimited occupants and users can share digital keys to grant temporary access to visitors.
Unfortunately, the auto-unlock and digital keys features remain unavailable on the Homekit version. Combined with reports of inconsistent performance from buyers, the Danalock V3 falls just below our top-tier recommendations.
Your Danalock V3 options:
Comparisons
How do the different Danalock V3 models compare?
Kevo Contemporary 2nd Gen
Finish Options: Black, Bronze, Chrome, and Nickel
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Via Bridge/Hub
Alexa Support: Yes with add-on hub
iOS App: Yes
Android App: Yes
- Wide range of finish options
- Touch to open with proximity technology
- Unlimited ekeys with Anytime, 24 hour access, scheduled and an activity log of all access
- Integration with a fair number of other connected devices including Alexa, Nest and Ring
- Responsive customer service with numerous users getting replacement locks
- Alexa integration only with the Kevo Plug added Wi-Fi hub
- Customers have complained about inconsistent connectivity and tap to unlock.
- Users have complained about getting locked out of their house after unlocking the deadbolt inside before stepping out
- Complaints on battery life and being able to quickly change out the batteries once dead.
The Kwikset Kevo Contempory Model has several features going for it with its touch to open technology, add-on key fobs for additional users and options Wi-fi hub for remote monitoring and access and to connect with other connected devices like Alexa and your Nest thermostat.
From many user reviews it seems like the technology does not always match up to its promise with many users complaining about slow connectivity from their phone to the door, and overall being unreliable from both a hardware and app perspective.
On the positive users have praised Kwikset for their customer service with people receiving replacement units and help walking through issues.
If you choose to add the Wi-fi hub this opens up more possibilities and users have positive results when using together with the lock.
Bottom line is that while Kwikset continues to improve on the model lineup each generation you will find more bang for your buck somewhere else until they fix all of the kinks.
Your Kevo Contemporary 2nd Gen options:
Comparisons
How do the 3 versions in the Kwikset Kevo smart lock line compare to each other?
Kwikset Kevo (Traditional) 2nd Gen
Finish Options: Brass, Bronze, and Nickel
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Via Bridge/Hub
Alexa Support: Yes with add-on hub
iOS App: Yes
Android App: No
- Wide range of finish options
- Touch to open with proximity technology
- Unlimited ekeys with Anytime, 24 hour access, scheduled and an activity log of all access
- Integration with a fair number of other connected devices including Alexa, Nest and Ring
- Responsive customer service with numerous users getting replacement locks
- Alexa integration only with the Kevo Plug added Wi-Fi hub
- Users complain about buggy app and inconsistent touch unlocking
- Customers complain about slow connectivity between app and lock
- Users have been locked out from the auto-lock technology
The Kwikset Kevo Contempory Model has several features going for it with its touch to open technology, add-on key fobs for additional users and options Wi-fi hub for remote monitoring and access and to connect with other connected devices like Alexa and your Nest thermostat.
From many user reviews it seems like the technology does not always match up to its promise with many users complaining about slow connectivity from their phone to the door, and overall being unreliable from both a hardware and app perspective.
On the positive users have praised Kwikset for their customer service with people receiving replacement units and help walking through issues.
If you choose to add the Wi-fi hub this opens up more possibilities and users have positive results when using together with the lock.
Bottom line is that while Kwikset continues to improve on the model lineup each generation you will find more bang for your buck somewhere else until they fix all of the kinks.
Your Kwikset Kevo (Traditional) 2nd Gen options:
Comparisons
How do the 3 versions in the Kwikset Kevo smart lock line compare to each other?
Kwikset Premis
Finish Options: Bronze and Nickel
Connectivity Options: Apple Homekit and Bluetooth
Siri Support: Yes
iOS App: Yes
Android App: No
- Assign up to 30 customizable codes to family and guests.
- Check the lock status of their door at any time using the Premis App.
- Full access data is recorded within the app.
- The Smartkey security features let owners assign, reassign, and cancel which hard key works with which Kwikset Premis smart lock.
- Installation is easy and takes less than an hour.
- All electronic communications are protected by Apple’s end-to-end encryption.
- Locking and unlocking using the touchpad can be very slow.
- The Premis App can be buggy, with long delays between app instructions and the door unlocking.
- AA batteries only last a few months.
- Full lock capabilities can only be obtained if you own a HomePod or 4th gen or up Apple TV
The Kwikset Premis lock is an incredible product when working correctly for those in the iOS / Apple ecosystem already and especially if you are already an owner of a HomePod or newer generation Apple TV.
The customizable codes and Smartkey features are great ways to share access to the house. Family friends and guests can now come and go without the need for spare keys under the doormat. With alarms for incorrect codes and a lock down mode you can also keep out would-be intruders.
However, the product is also frustrating. The unlock lag can leave you standing by the door for too long. On top of that, the poor battery life and buggy app mean the product doesn’t always perform as highly as it’s capable.
If these issues are resolved, the Kwikset Premis will be an even more formidable wireless lock for those committed to Apple devices and their security.
Your Kwikset Premis options:
Lockly (pin genie) Secure
Finish Options: Bronze and Nickel
Connectivity Options: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Via Bridge/Hub
Google Assistant: Yes with add-on hub
Alexa Support: Yes with add-on hub
iOS App: Yes
Android App: Yes
- Users can send time-restricted codes via text or email to grant guest access.
- The patented Pin Genie digital touchscreen scrambles codes so prying eyes can’t detect your code.
- The lock comes with a backup 9v battery for use in the case of battery failure.
- ‘Do not disturb’ mode disables the access keypad at any time.
- Suitable for outdoor use and is proven to work between 4 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fingerprint access for up to 99 users.
- The touch screen can be difficult to view in direct sunlight, especially with scrambled layouts.
- The smartphone app can be a little tricky.
- Poor customer service means that problems can take a long time to resolve.
- Need additional Wifi hub for remote locking and integration with Alexa and Google Home.
The Lockly Secure lock keeps things simple, with all the no-frills features that a smart lock needs. While it boasts fewer accessibility features than some rival products, the product is more reliable and secure than most.
Connection to the lock is via Bluetooth – not WiFi out of the box (you will need to add a Wifi bridge to get these capabilities)- but users can also use access codes or the hard keys which come with the lock.
Lockly also boasts tremendous battery life, but provides a backup 9V battery for emergency use.
At its mid-range price point, this smart lock performs extremely well, without the bugs and problematic performance of most rivals and with a large range of features that competitors are missing.
Your Lockly (pin genie) Secure options:
Comparisons
Your first decision with the Lockly product link is to choose between Handle or Deadbolt replacement then if you need the fingerprint access feature (These are called Lockly Plus)
Nest x Yale
Finish Options: Black, Brass, and Nickel
Connectivity Options: 802.15.4 (2.4GHz), Bluetooth, and Weave
Google Assistant: Yes
iOS App: Yes
Android App: Yes
- Integration with Google Assistant for voice control
- Integration with Nest Secure so that when you unlock your door from an authorized device it will disable the security system.
- Nest x Yale Lock can lock automatically when you’re away. using the Home/Away assist
- Remote locking and control with Nest Connect Wi-fi accessory that comes in the package unlike most other smart lock solutions.
- Focused only on Nest and Google Home/Assistant ecosystem.
- Some users have had difficulty in getting all of the components to setup and connect properly especially if having changed Wi-fi passwords, etc as well as Nest Connect interacting with some Wi-fi routers in strange ways causing Internet issues.
- If you have multiple Nest X Yale locks you cannot provide access to just one door (all doors get the access codes)
If you are already have Nest Secure or other Nest products this lock could be a perfect fit for you.
Highlights include integration with Google Assistant for voice control from the comfort of your bedroom at night or across the planet where you have a connection to remotely check on your door status and lock the door (unlocking is restricting from voice control for security reasons).
The device relies on the iOS or Android Nest app for adding user access pins. The lock features a nice touchscreen interface where you can input your 4-8 digit security code.
Unfortunately, some items to be aware of If you are looking for deep integration with Alexa, Siri or other smart home systems like SmartThings you will be better off looking elsewhere. Users have also run into some connectivity issues using the Nest Connect interacting in annoying ways with their home routers and Internet connections.
Looking into the future Google is investing heavily into the Nest product line so expect more integrations with their Nest line of security cameras, video doorbells and Google Nest Hubs.
Overall we like the clean design, deep integrations with Google and Nest ecosystem and can recommend the device for most and especially those already with Nest devices and committed to the Google Assistant voice service for their smart homes.
Your Nest x Yale options:
Schlage Sense
Finish Options: Black, Bronze, and Nickel
Connectivity Options: Apple Homekit, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi Via Bridge/Hub
Google Assistant: Yes with add-on hub
Siri Support: Yes
Alexa Support: Yes with add-on hub
iOS App: Yes
Android App: No
- This model has a wide range of finish and style options.
- Has been a very popular model in terms of number of units sold and still maintains a large number of positive reviews.
- Users praise an easy install process (15-20 minutes being the average)
- Homekit/Siri support out of the box if you are in Bluetooth range and can be controlled remotely if you have an Apple TV or HomePod.
- If you want voice control or remote monitoring or management you will have to pair the lock with an additional Wi-Fi adapter as this only has Bluetooth connectivity.
- If you use the Wi-Fi adapter you will lose Siri/Homekit compatability.
The Schlage Sense is a popular lock on the market for its Siri and Homekit support and wide range of style and finish options.
There is some confusing marketing in terms of what it connects with.
If you want Siri/Homekit support:
– This lock will work out of the box if you are in Bluetooth range. If you are looking for remote monitoring and control you will need to have an Apple TV or Homepod
If you want Alexa or Google Assistant voice control:
– This will not work out of the box.
– You will need to add a Wifi adapter to your purchase to enable these connectivity and control options if you are away from your home.
The Sense lock utilizes the iOS and Android Schlage Home apps so if you have either the Apple TV/HomePod setup or the Wi-fi adapter you can use the app to add and remove access codes, lock and unlock the door etc.
Overall many of the bad reviews for this product have come from people who were confused about what the lock was capable on its own without additional devices. If you are aware of these going in the Schlage Sense lock offers a solid smart lock option at a mid-range price point.
Your Schlage Sense options:
Comparisons
How do the different versions of the Schlage Sense stack up to each other?
FAQ
Installation
Integration and Connectivity
Security
About Smart Lock Scout
We are here to help you keep your home and family safely connected. Whether you’re looking to pick a smart lock system, we’ve spent hundreds of hours researching locks to help you find the best product to fit your specific situation.
At Postscapes we combine our years of experience following the smart home market along with user reviews to take the guesswork out of living securely connected. Learn More
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