Comparing 10 of the Best-Selling Smart Locks on the Market

 Comparing 10 of the Best-Selling Smart Locks on the Market

Learn what to look for in security, reliability, and installation, and get an overview of costs, connectivity, and features of today’s most popular smart locks.To get more news about secure locks, you can visit securamsys.com official website.
Over the last couple of years, I’ve had the opportunity to test 10 different top selling smart locks. This includes everything from simple Bluetooth-only locks with keypads all the way up to internet-connected locks with video doorbells, fingerprint technology, and advanced security features. I was also able to connect with industry leaders from Lockly and Schlage, who shared their insights via email interviews

The most crucial element in a smart lock is security, says Todd DeLong, general manager at Lockly, a property technology company that helps individuals secure their homes, offices, and personal items through a variety of advanced smart lock solutions. That’s why technologies such as fingerprint sensors and the ability to share a unique code to access residential homes and rental listings, are key features in a smart lock system. They also add convenience, he adds.

“Convenience is being able to use a fingerprint to access your home in the same way most of us have locked and unlocked our smartphones for years, but on a larger scale, for one of the most highly valued investments in your life,” DeLong says.

Consumers should look for companies that make their products better and more secure(link is external) over time, says Rob Martens, senior vice president and chief innovation and design officer at Allegion, maker of Schlage(link is external) locks, which has been around for more than 100 years and is one of the largest manufactures of locks in the world.

“Some will argue that a connected smart device is inherently less secure,” Martens says. “I would suggest that you consider any connected device like a smartphone or laptop as a similar example. Would you ever buy one of those devices without the ability to receive upgrades? Good companies will add features, capabilities, and security upgrades. Any good, connected device will employ encryption and other digital security tools and protocols.”

Reliability is another vital part of an efficient and trustworthy smart lock system. For instance, Lockly has an extended battery life upwards of 10 months or more. There are smart locks that can be attached to the existing deadbolt systems as an added layer of security, DeLong says. There is also the option of completely replacing the home’s existing lock system so that the smart lock serves as the door’s only deadbolt.

When it comes to installation, most smart locks available on the market will offer instructions for set up, DeLong says. Lockly smart locks include an easy guide and the option to download the BILT app for step-by-step directions with images.

“DIY installation for most smart locks should take no more than 20 to 30 minutes, however when adding multiple smart locks or if you are living in an apartment, you can consider hiring a professional to properly install your devices for extra peace of mind,” DeLong says.

Looking to the future, Martens says the next big trend in smart home technology will be the simplification of the total ecosystem. “Another big trend will be the continuing migration of battery-operated devices to Wi-Fi despite the technical challenges of doing so. The experience is far better without costly adapters or bridges, and the major players will make the investments to get there without sacrificing battery life.”