Shopping for the best keyless entry smart locks means deciding whether daily convenience or remote access matters more at your door. Fingerprint readers and passcodes suit busy households, while built-in Wi-Fi matters if you need to manage entry away from home.
Pros
- Fingerprint access in under one second
- Built-in Wi-Fi, no bridge required
- Up to eight months with eight AA batteries
- BHMA Grade 3 certification
Cons
- Requires eight AA batteries
- IP53 protection, not fully waterproof
Pros
- Built-in WiFi, remote control from anywhere
- Stores up to 100 access codes
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
- Forced-entry alarm and encrypted connection
Cons
- Requires Schlage Home app for smart features
- Four AA batteries last up to six months
Pros
- Multiple entry methods, including fingerprint and passcode
- Matter over Thread supports multiple ecosystems
- Rechargeable battery lasts up to six months
- BHMA-certified with IP65 outdoor protection
Cons
- UWB requires specific Apple devices and a Thread hub
- NFC cards sold separately
Pros
- Fingerprint recognition with self-learning AI chip
- Eight entry methods for flexible access
- Remote user permissions and activity logs
- USB-C emergency port and low-battery alerts
Cons
- G1 Gateway required for remote access
- Four AA batteries not included
Pros
- Fingerprint, app, passcode, key fob, and key access
- 10-minute screwdriver installation
- Temporary and one-time passcode management
- Reversible handle for left- or right-handed doors
Cons
- Remote control needs a separately sold WiFi gateway
- App required for remote code management
Pros
- Fingerprint, passcode, app, key, and voice entry
- Built-in Wi-Fi, no extra hub needed
- Up to 100 custom passcodes
- Auto-lock adjustable from 10 to 180 seconds
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only
Match the access method to your household
Fingerprint entry is useful when family members want to leave keys and phones behind. The eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400, Apple Home Key, Veise VE017 Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with App, and Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock all include fingerprint access, while the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock focuses on touchscreen codes and physical-key backup.
Passcodes are particularly practical for guests, cleaners, renters, or relatives who need access without receiving a key. Schlage supports up to 100 access codes, Philips supports up to 100 custom passcodes, and Yamiry supports temporary and one-time codes through its app. For broader smart-home control, check whether the lock needs a gateway or hub before buying.
Pro Tip: Choose one primary entry method for daily use, then keep a backup method available for low batteries, wet fingers, or a misplaced phone.
Separate remote control from local entry
Built-in Wi-Fi gives you remote app access without adding a bridge. That applies to eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock, and Philips Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock. Yamiry can provide remote control with a separately sold Wi-Fi gateway, while Veise requires its G1 Gateway for remote access and voice features.
The Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400, Apple Home Key is aimed at households already using compatible Apple, Matter, or Thread equipment. Its hands-free UWB feature has specific iPhone, Apple Watch, operating-system, and hub requirements, so confirm your equipment first. Its Apple Home Key, NFC card, fingerprint, passcode, app, voice, and physical-key options provide useful alternatives.
| Access style | Main requirement | Good fit |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerprint | Local biometric reader | Family entry |
| Wi-Fi control | Home network connection | Remote management |
| UWB hands-free | Compatible Apple hub | Full hands |
For broader context on hub requirements, see what a smart lock bridge does. A lock can still work at the door without remote features, but the connected functions may depend on the required network or gateway.
Check batteries, weather, and door fit
Battery formats and service intervals vary. Eufy uses eight AA batteries for around eight months, Schlage uses four AA batteries for up to six months with typical use, Philips requires AA alkaline batteries, and Veise uses four AA batteries for about twelve months. Aqara uses a removable rechargeable lithium battery rated for up to six months per charge.
Outdoor exposure also separates these models. Eufy has an IP53 rating and operates from -22°F to 158°F, while Aqara has an IP65-rated exterior. Those ratings describe resistance conditions, not permission to ignore a covered installation or a properly aligned deadbolt.
Before You Mount It: Do not assume every smart lock fits your existing door. Confirm the deadbolt or handle arrangement, door thickness, backset, bore size, and swing before removing the current hardware.
Installation claims are model-specific. Eufy fits most standard deadbolts and can fit bores under 54mm by removing the spacer, Schlage fits standard doors from 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inches thick, and Yamiry is designed for many standard American wooden front doors. For related hardware advice, read why the strike plate matters.
Expert Examined
From Jenna Castellano
I keep seeing smart-lock problems start with door alignment rather than the electronics. I would first make sure the existing deadbolt moves freely with the door closed, then choose a lock that matches the current hardware instead of forcing a mismatched installation.
Read more about Jenna CastellanoWhich lock fits your front door routine
I would put the eufy Security Smart Lock C220 on a standard deadbolt when you want many entry choices without a separate bridge. Its fingerprint reader, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch option, voice control, built-in Wi-Fi, and eufy ecosystem support make it a flexible household choice.
I would point Apple households toward Aqara UWB Smart Lock U400, Apple Home Key if their compatible hub and devices meet the stated requirements. The hands-free approach is useful when your hands are full, and the rechargeable battery, IP65 exterior, and rekeyable cylinder add practical advantages.
For code-heavy homes, I would choose the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock. Its capacity for up to 100 access codes, lock history, customizable notifications, built-in alarm, auto-lock settings, and BHMA certification suit a household managing frequent visitors or several locks.
The Bottom Line
The mistake many buyers make is treating all keyless locks as equally remote. Some include Wi-Fi, some need a gateway, and some require a compatible Thread or Apple hub for their most advanced functions.
If you do one thing first, inspect your existing door and list the entry methods your household will actually use. Then confirm the lock’s fit, battery type, network needs, and backup key option before choosing a model.
FAQs
Fingerprint locks can be faster for household members who want entry without a phone or code. Keypads are often more convenient for guests, cleaners, renters, or anyone who should receive a temporary code instead of registering a fingerprint. No. Compatibility depends on the existing deadbolt or handle, door thickness, backset, bore size, and alignment. Check the model’s fit requirements before installation, especially when replacing a handle rather than a deadbolt. Battery life depends on the model, battery format, and use frequency. Check the stated interval, use the recommended battery type, and respond to low-battery alerts before relying on the lock for daily entry. BHMA certification indicates that the lock has been evaluated against relevant performance categories such as security, durability, or finish. The exact grade and claim still matter, so read the product specification rather than treating every certification as identical.Are fingerprint locks better than keypad smart locks?
Do smart locks fit every front door?
How often do smart-lock batteries need attention?
What does BHMA certification mean for a smart lock?
Sources
- Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association. www.buildershardware.com
- UL Solutions. www.ul.com