Smart locks have come a long way. The good ones are now reliable, secure, and easy to use. But not all smart locks are created equal. As a working locksmith installing these every week, here's our take on the major options.
Smart locks solve real problems:
They're not for everyone — if you're not comfortable with smartphone apps, traditional locks still work fine. But for most households, a good smart lock is a meaningful upgrade.
Best for: Most homeowners who want WiFi built-in without extra hubs.
Schlage is one of the oldest American lock brands, and they bring that physical security pedigree to their smart locks. The Encode has built-in WiFi (no hub required), works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, and has a solid keypad. The deadbolt mechanism itself is ANSI Grade 1 (the highest standard for residential), so the physical security holds up.
Pros: Strong physical security, built-in WiFi, reliable app, doesn't need a hub.
Cons: Battery life can be shorter than competitors due to WiFi power draw. Apple HomeKit not supported on standard Encode (HomeKit version exists separately).
Typical price: $250-$340 hardware. Installation $175-$250.
Best for: Modern aesthetics, sleek touchscreen interface.
Yale makes some of the best-looking smart locks on the market. The Assure SL is a key-free design with a touchscreen keypad — if you want a streamlined modern look, this is it. WiFi requires an add-on module (Yale Smart Module), but with that you get Alexa, Google, and HomeKit support.
Pros: Excellent design, touchscreen, modular connectivity (add what you need), strong build quality.
Cons: Key-free means no backup if the keypad fails. Costs add up with modules.
Typical price: $200-$300 base, plus $50-$80 for connectivity modules.
Best for: Keeping your existing deadbolt while adding smart features.
August doesn't replace your deadbolt — it goes on the inside of your existing deadbolt and operates it. This means you keep your existing key (great if you don't want to give up traditional key access) and the outside of your door looks unchanged. The current generation has built-in WiFi.
Pros: Works with your existing deadbolt and keys, no exterior changes, great app, works with HomeKit/Alexa/Google.
Cons: You're relying on your existing deadbolt's security (not an upgrade to physical security). Some doors don't have compatible deadbolts.
Typical price: $200-$280 hardware. Installation $125-$175 (simpler since you keep your existing deadbolt).
Best for: People who hate the look of bulky smart locks.
Level Lock is the invisible smart lock — the smart components fit inside the deadbolt cylinder, so the lock looks exactly like a traditional deadbolt from outside. The Lock+ adds Apple HomeKit and Home Key support (you can unlock with your iPhone or Apple Watch using NFC). Aesthetically beautiful.
Pros: Looks like a traditional lock, no visible smart components, premium feel, Apple Home Key support.
Cons: Premium price. No external keypad (unlock via app, NFC, or key only).
Typical price: $250-$350 hardware. Installation $175-$250.
Best for: Budget-friendly smart lock with basic features.
Kwikset is the most affordable major smart lock brand. The Halo has built-in WiFi; the SmartCode series uses Z-Wave or Zigbee (requires a hub). Build quality is okay but not as solid as Schlage or Yale. Good for situations where price matters and the feature set is enough.
Pros: Affordable, easy to install, lots of model options.
Cons: Physical security and build quality below premium options. App can be quirky.
Typical price: $130-$220 hardware. Installation $125-$200.
You'll see plenty of $50-$80 smart locks from no-name brands on Amazon. Avoid them. Specifically:
A smart lock is your front door's primary defense. Spend the extra money for an established brand.
WiFi smart locks let you control them from anywhere. Bluetooth-only locks only work when you're nearby. WiFi is more useful but uses more battery. Most people want WiFi.
Some smart locks need a separate hub (Z-Wave or Zigbee). If you already have a smart home hub, this is fine. If you're starting from scratch, locks with built-in WiFi are simpler.
If you use Apple HomeKit, make sure the lock supports it (not all do). If you use Amazon Alexa or Google Home, most major brands support these. SmartThings and Hubitat support varies.
A keypad is nice for situations where you don't have your phone (kids, guests, leaving the phone inside). Key-free designs look sleeker but limit options if the keypad fails. Locks with both keypad AND key backup are most flexible.
Most smart locks auto-lock after a configurable time. This is one of the best features — you never wonder if you locked the door.
Smart locks typically use AA batteries lasting 6-12 months. Better-quality locks tend to last longer. Most apps will warn you well before batteries die.
For most Auburn-area homeowners, our default recommendation is the Schlage Encode — it has the best combination of physical security, app reliability, and ease of installation. If you specifically want to keep your existing deadbolt, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the choice. For style-focused buyers, the Yale Assure SL or Level Lock+.
Smart locks fit most standard residential doors. Things to know:
We install smart locks throughout the Auburn area and surrounding cities. We carry quality smart locks from all the major brands and can also install hardware you've purchased separately. Our flat-rate installation pricing includes setup, configuration, and walking you through the app. For homes with existing smart home systems (HomeKit, SmartThings, Google Home, Alexa), we configure the integration so everything works together cleanly.
Call (253) 796-8550 to schedule smart lock installation or get a quote.
Auburn Lock & Car Keys is the real local mobile locksmith serving Auburn and all of King & Pierce counties. Honest flat-rate pricing. 24/7 availability..
Call (253) 796-8550