Best Keyless Door Locks Guide & Reviews of 2021

People who would like to have a truly connected, smart home should start by getting a keypad door lock. These devices make it easier to enter and get out of the home. But they are also great to monitor who goes through the gates and at what time. These are only some of their benefits. If readers would like to know more, they should watch over this guide about the best keyless door locks of 2021.

Natalie Mitchell - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 14, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

To rank each smart keypad in 2021, we carried out extensive research. This involved not only reading about the products but also consulting with experts and taking into account what previous clients had to say. Using 100 balls systems with a maximum of 20 marks, we came up with the list using the following metrics:

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

So, after gauging the best-rated devices, we tried them out and saw how their features lived up to our expectations. After using the criteria above to rank them, we came up with the following list. The first deadbolt lock is the one that had the best points in descendant order.

1. Schlage Z-Wave Touchscreen Keyless Door Lock: Sturdy Security

Total Score 9.6/10

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$285

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Large Families

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This device by Schlage is one of the most expensive but also the best keyless door lock for those who look for quality. Schlage’s model is nice for big families or people who have a lot of stuff at home, as it can store up to 30 different security combinations.

The built-in alarm has many chimes and 3 types of settings so clients can personalize the experience as they see fit. Schlage requires the door to be a bit thick, as it is made for outdoor items.

Pros:

  • Satin nickel color
  • Only 4.5 x 5.13 x 9.25 inches
  • Great ratings
  • Nice customer support
  • Compatible with smart security devices
  • Touch screen keypad
  • Lock cylinder

Cons:

  • Very expensive
  • Hub is sold in a separate way
  • Low-performing battery

2. Schlage Touch Camelot Keyless Door Lock: For Families & Individuals

Total Score 9.6/10

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$89

Visit Website
BBB Rating B+
Best for Affordable Pricing

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This is a much affordable option made by Schlage. The quality is the same as with other equipment, though it doesn’t have as many benefits. For example, these products are not compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

But in other respects, they have the same features. For example, the fingerprint-resistant screen is great for preventing criminals from handling it. Plus, as this electronic door lock doesn’t need wiring, it’s effortless to install.

Pros:

  • Much more affordable than other models of the same brand
  • Fingerprint-resistant
  • LED display
  • Very convenient for those who carry a lot of keys
  • 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 Inches
  • Programming mode
  • Low battery indicator

Cons:

  • Only grade 2 security
  • Available in satin nickel alone
  • The battery is not very durable

3. Schlage E365CAM619 Keyless Door Lock: Great for Any Building

Total Score 9.4/10

Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$85.45

Visit Website
BBB Rating B+
Best for Updated Models

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Schlage is a famous brand that makes high-quality security deadbolts, and the E365CAM619 model is no exception. The design is a bit more traditional than with other keyless door locks like the ones mentioned above.

Yet, this design by Schlage has been improved, as the numbers are coated with silicone so they won’t wear off. It can be installed on multi-family doors, so it’s suitable for big homes as well as smaller apartments.

Plus, this lock also has a backlit key so clients can see what they are doing, even in the dark. As regards the wireless system, it makes it easier for the owner to install it at home.

Pros:

  • Up to 19 options for friends and family
  • Very affordable
  • Accessible measuring
  • Mechanical system
  • Premium materials
  • Secure sharing of passwords
  • Stylish, sturdy digital door lock

Cons:

  • No siren
  • No LED screen
  • Limited warranty

4. SimpliSafe Smart Lock: Endless Codes Available

Total Score 9.4/10

SimpliSafe Home Security Systems-simplisafe
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Tech-savvy People

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Simplisafe is a great company for those who are looking to make the home safer. This whole kit comes with a system of alerts to let the owner know every time somebody comes in or out. Plus, the company promises to call the buyer in case the code is set more than 15 times incorrectly.

Another great function is related to blocking the entry for 15 minutes in case the buyer feels this is needed. In terms of the PIN pad, it is made of high-quality steel, so the numbers don’t get blurred. This avoids hacks, as it makes it difficult for criminals to guess which key the person pressed on their keyless door lock.

Pros:

  • No need for a phone
  • Enter a timer to lock the house
  • Nice PIN pad
  • Unique Key Fob
  • Automatic block after 15 tries
  • Personalized alerts
  • Lasting mechanism

Cons:

  • Cannot be paired up with Siri
  • No powerbolt
  • No details of the guarantee

5. Kwikset 907 Powerbolt Keyless Door Lock: Latest Technology

Total Score 9.2/10

Kwikset Main
Kwikset App
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$55

Visit Website
BBB Rating B
Best for Long-Lasting Guarantee

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Kwikset 907 is a nice option for those looking for polished brass electronic door locks in 2021. It has a 2.0 powerbolt for more security, and it has customizable private security combinations. It can fit almost any door and needs 4 AA affordable batteries.

With a screwdriver, it can be installed in less than 5 minutes. The touchpad has a traditional look with numbered buttons for those who do not like LED screens so much.

Kwikset can be bought for home or for commercial use and can be found in different online stores. Some examples are eBay or Amazon.

Pros:

  • Beautiful polished brass
  • Prepared for outdoors
  • Adjustable backset
  • Re-key technology
  • Lifetime mechanical guarantee
  • Detailed installation manual
  • Great privacy policy

Cons:

  • No smart home compatibility
  • Not finger proof
  • Only one year limited warranty

6. Kwikset 909 SmartCode Keyless Door Lock: Remote Data Connection

Total Score 9.2/10

Kwikset Main
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$71.11

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for High-Quality Materials

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Kwikset has a very stylish design to suit every home. It doesn’t allow for the creation of many security combinations, so this smart product is best suited for small families or people who live alone.

On the negative side, the lock uses 4 AA alkaline batteries, which can be a bit expensive to replace. It needs a deadbolt to work, so people who have other types of doors will not be able to buy these electronic door locks.

Plus, the SmartCode touchpad makes it easy for people to digit in their home entry passwords. The numbers are big and easy to see, even in the dark. Anyway, people can just use the best keyless door locks on their phones.

Pros:

  • Can be controlled remotely
  • Up to 30 security accesses
  • Tapered deadbolt
  • Easy installation
  • Manual override
  • One-touch use
  • Great customer service

Cons:

  • Only one color to choose from
  • A controller is required
  • Elevated price

7. August Smart Lock 2nd Generation Keyless Door Lock: Top-notch Materials

Total Score 9.2/10

August Smart Lock
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$149

Visit Website
BBB Rating B+
Best for Weather Resistance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

August is a great lock for those who don’t want to fumble for keys anymore. The unlock feature works very efficiently and even from a distance. The item also has a 24/7 activity log to know who comes and goes to the building. The polished metal that is of very high quality and will never get rusty or ruined by weather conditions.

Plus, the low-battery indicator helps owners know when they need a replacement with enough time available. When it comes to installing this keyless door lock, the process is truly DIY.

The mounting plate can be set up without using any tools, not even a screwdriver. This means any person, no matter if it’s an elder, can take advantage of this deadbolt for their home entry.

Pros:

  • Universal bracket for commercial use
  • Auto-lock available
  • Glossy display
  • RFID card
  • Sleek and modern
  • Built-in, powerful alarm
  • Top-notch reputation

Cons:

  • It can be hard to align with the door
  • A bit pricey
  • Temporary guest codes

8. SoHoMiLL YL 99 Keyless Door Lock: Hackless Device

Total Score 9.0/10

  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$44.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating C+
Best for Traditional Knobs

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Sohomill has designed a great item for more classic customers who want to upgrade the security at home. It has a stainless steel handle with embedded buttons for people who don’t want to deal with touchscreens or LED keypads.

To prevent hacks, the numbers are not printed on the buttons. In this way, nobody will be able to try out codes or passwords because the numbers are worn out. The anti-slip grip is also a nice touch, so people can grab the deadbolt in case the floor is slippery, or they feel they need something to hold on to.

The batteries can be a bit expensive, but the good thing is that they don’t need to be replaced that often.

Pros:

  • Stainless steel
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Weatherproof
  • Easy setup
  • No clearance needed
  • Low battery warning
  • Back up box jumper

Cons:

  • Only works in traditional knobs
  • No smart compatibility
  • No touchscreen

9. Nest X Yale Lock With Nest Connect Keypad Deadbolt: Ergonomic & Premium

Total Score 9.0/10

Yale Nest X Lock
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$245

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Stylish Design

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Google is now specializing in developing security devices like the best smart keypad. Nest X Yale is one of them. As the name shows, these models do not use keys. This means that owners can open and close their doors from anywhere they are, as long as they have downloaded the app for this.

These keyless locks are compatible with other systems from the same company, such as Nest Yale cams and doorbells. In this way, people can make security at home stronger and protect their entry using several high-quality products in the field of safety.

Pros:

  • No rekeying for the entry
  • Compatible with smart voice assistants
  • Great variety of chimes
  • Unlimited unique codes for friends
  • Sturdy and stylish
  • Check the status from anywhere
  • Simple-to-use app

Cons:

  • It needs handles and hubs to work well
  • Very expensive
  • Few privacy modes

10. Ultraloq UL3 Smart Lock: Reversible Mode for the Keypad Deadbolt

Total Score 9.0/10

  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$149

Visit Website
BBB Rating C+
Ultraloq UL3

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Ultraloq is a great keypad door lock for families, with an almost unlimited number of codes to be set. It also includes top-notch technology like secure finger ID to make sure nobody plays around with the device.

It means that the model will allow for the recognition of the owners’ fingerprints before using the item. Of course, this has to be programmed using the app. This is also scratch and dustproof to prevent it from ruining and breaking down.

And the best part is that it works on reversible handles, so people can install this best smart deadbolt outdoors or indoors.

Pros:

  • Anti-peep code
  • Premium materials
  • Mechanical keys allowed
  • Numeric touchscreen
  • Up to 95 codes to set
  • Long battery life
  • Many lockout modes

Cons:

  • A bit expensive
  • Only works with reversible handles
  • Hard to use

Best Electronic Door Locks of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

Each keyless door lock is worth the shot. But there are some features that make them more suitable for people’s homes, such as being compatible with smart home assistants. Find them in the table below.

Provider Best for Price Compatible with Smart Assistants Requires a separate hub Type of batteries Unlock remotely Touchscreen Materials Display Sensors Built-in alarm Fingerprint resistant
Schlage Z-Wave Large Families $285.00 Yes Yes 4 alkaline Yes Yes Aluminum LED Yes Yes Yes
Schlage Touch Camelot Updated Models $85.00 No No 4 alkaline Yes Yes Steel LED Yes No Yes
Schlage E365CAM619 Affordable Pricing $85.48 No No Not included No No Steel Traditional No No No
Simplisafe Smart Lock Tech-savvy People $99.00 Yes No Lithium Yes Yes Steel LED Yes Yes Yes
Kwikset 907 Long-Lasting Guarantee $55.00 No No 2 AA No No Polished brass No No No No
Kwikset 909 High-Quality Materials $71.11 No Yes 2 AA No No Aluminum No No No No
August Smart Lock 2nd Generation Weather Resistance $145.00 Yes No 1 lithium polymer Yes No Polished metal No Yes No Yes
SoHoMiLL YL 99 Traditional Knobs $44.99 No No 2 AAA No No Aluminum No No No No
Nest X Yale Stylish Design $245.00 Yes Yes Not included Yes Yes Steel LED Yes Yes Yes
Ultraloq UL3 Tech-savvy people $137 No No 3 AA Yes Yes Zinc Alloy LED Yes No Yes

How to Install the Best Electronic Door Locks in Your Home

Take these words: setting up electronic door locks is usually an easy task. The best of them have been designed so that owners don’t have to use any tools or complicated security devices.

Still, there are some steps to take into account when carrying out these tasks. Let’s take a look at them below.

Step 1 – Do Away With the Deadbolt

All these are keyless locks, so owners do not need existing deadbolts still on the door. Instead, they will have to remove them in some simple steps. But before doing so, it’s a great idea to take a pic of how it looked like.

This is useful in case people need to take things to the way they were before. Then, unscrewing the cylinder and handle is quite an easy process. People don’t need to be tech-savvy or have a lot of specialized tools to carry it out.

Step 2 – Get Started With the New Keyless Door Lock

While some electronic door locks only need to be attached with a magnet with a key, most of them will require a screwdriver. But this only involves a D-turn, nothing complicated. Just make sure this is aligned with the door hole. If not, the device will not fit.

After this, just follow the advice given by the manual in regards to the mounting plate and the motor assembly. Wire it, in case the electronic locks need them, and that’s it. They are almost ready to be used.

Step 3 – Adjust as Necessary

Before going with this new system, it’s important to give the door locks a try. This is to see if there are any issues or mistakes to be corrected until people leave the house. For example, it’s important to see if the deadbolt is retracting in a good way.

If it is not, then the door can get blocked, and the owner is left out of the home.

What to Take in Mind When Shopping Around?

So, what are the things to bear in mind when deciding what to buy? Are all electronic locks the same? Not at all. Several factors exist when taking a look at different models and choosing the best one for home. Here are some of them.

Type of Device

There are two types of items, in general. These are deadbolts and lever locks. While this may sound a bit strange, it’s not hard to obtain this info. People can just look it up or ask a professional about what type they have at home. Owners should take into account those two categories when shopping around, as they will need to make sure their door is compatible with the door locks they want to buy.

Design & Style

Most people care about their home style and design, so it won’t be the same for them if the device is blue, white, or black. Some models will not come in different variations. Yet, the best keyless door locks offer a lot of options for buyers to choose from. In addition to the colors, there are also different shapes and styles, such as classic or modern, with big or small buttons, etc.

Keypad or Not

This is another crucial element of a keyless door lock. Today, most of them are electronic, but some other brands offer traditional keypads with normal buttons. Plus, other companies make them with the keyhole while some others do not. While they can have a number of benefits, those who buy the traditional type should make sure the numbers are printed inside the plastic of the button and not outside to avoid hacking issues.

Includes an Alarm

Such a feature may or may not be important for owners, but it’s nice to know that some keyless locks also include a built-in alarm. People will be able to manage the settings and decide when this chime will ring. If that’s the case, an alarm will start ringing on the owners’ phones so they can check what is going on and do something about it if necessary.

Can Be Accessed Remotely

The most advanced models will include a feature so that the owner can access the device using a mobile app. The software is usually easy to download and use, so people don’t need to be tech-savvy or know a lot about cellphones to get started with this. Yet, they may need to own a recent phone with an updated Android system, or the app may not work as it should, compromising the safety of the building.

Compatible With Voice Smart Assistants

Today, more and more homes are getting automatized. So, many appliances are compatible with different smart systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Voice, Apple’s Siri, and many more. If this is something relevant for buyers, they should check whether the door locks are going to work or not. Some voice commands are handy, such as “Siri, open the gate”.

How to Use Them

Some systems will use the app to manage what is going on at home. Some others, instead, only require the user to have a remote control. But what if the buyer loses the device or if they don’t have the phone available? Consider this as a part of the shopping process and see if they can use a hybrid homekit. In this way, they will be saving themselves some trouble in case there are issues nobody can foresee.

Truly Keyless

The idea behind each keyless door lock is not to use keys at all. So, people who want to adopt this new system should look for deadbolts that do not need physical items. In addition, these are usually easier to install, as they don’t require tools or even screwdrivers.

Any Other Benefits

Is using an app important for the buyers? Do they want to be able to give people their own codes? Those are all options when shopping around for keyless door locks, together with other benefits, like manufacturer’s warranty or how much the batteries last. While this may seem like something small, it’s not.

Does it Have a Warranty?

No matter how good the brand is or how great the reputation, the keyless door lock can always be faulty. That is why clients should be covered by a warranty for the smart product and its failures. For example, if they turn it on and do not open the door, then they should be able to return the item without further costs.

FAQ Section

  • What Is an Electronic Keyless Deadbolt?

    An electronic door lock is an item that requires no keys to function. In this way, people can manage their gateway at home, the office, or anywhere they are without using a physical item.

    Instead, they will be managing these homekits using software, apps, or simple remotes and applying codes to close or open the door.

  • Are Keyless Locks Secure?

    Yes, they are. Most of them have been designed by experts and approved by safety measures existing in the USA. Yet, what makes them secure is the way people install them. Even the best keyless door locks have a DIY setup.

    This means buyers have to pay extra attention to what they do with the tools they own and how they place the motor and the mounting place. If they don’t, the door may not work in the way it should.

  • What Is the Best Electronic Door Lock?

    It depends on a lot of factors. Some people will consider that the best keyless door lock is the one that costs the least. Yet, some others will value the benefits they have over the price. Some of these include smart voice assistants, durability, guarantees, LED pad, and more.

    All in all, it will come down to the person’s needs and requirements. If they have a big house with lots of people coming in, the machines with at least 10 access codes will be more convenient for them.

  • How Much Do Electronic Locks Cost?

    Prices vary a lot depending on the brand, the benefits, and the type of electronic door lock people decide to buy. The starting price is usually around $100 for important brands. Yet, it can go as high as $300 for more famous companies.

    This difference has to do with smart home compatibility, fingerprint-resistant touchscreens, the type of materials, and so on. Anyway, they are affordable for almost any family or a person who lives alone.

  • Can Keyless Door Locks Be Hacked?

    Yes, this is possible. But it is not likely to happen. Most brands take measures to ensure no criminals can access the database or the system. For this, they offer different options to access one’s home.

    The first one is hybrid homekits, with traditional keys together with the electronic lock doors. Plus, the products can be controlled with a physical remote in addition to the app. In this way, people can be at ease in case they lose their phone, or it breaks down.

  • What Is the Difference Between a Smart Lock and an Electronic Lock?

    The difference is that smart devices offer an upgrade when compared to electronic locks. Different from the other systems, they offer compatibility with different smart voice systems. So, owners of Echo Dot, for example, will be able to use Amazon Alexa to manage their doors.

    Of course, the voice command will be defined by the owner, and they will have to enter a code to make it happen. In addition to Amazon Alexa, the most popular keyless door locks can also be used with Google Voice, FITT, or Siri.

Take the Leap and Make the Lock Electronic

Having a keypad deadbolt may seem luxurious, but let’s not forget these premium items have a first function: to safeguard a home. So, the features that should be taken more seriously are the security ones.

How many codes are allowed? Does the company make sure hackers cannot enter the home? These, among many others, are questions to address when trying to buy the best keyless door locks in 2021.


Editorial Staff

Natalie contributes her expertise by her professional writing and years working in editorial offices and with online publishers. Natalie is a true leader who has exceptional skills to be a team player. She excels at conducting research on robberies and thefts using open police data and is inspired by her husband’s work as a detective. With such interests, she continues to write excellent articles about security systems in general and Securing Home in particular.


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