Best smart locks 2024

Smart locks are a simple solution to a variety of problems. Not only do they quell the fear of forgetting your keys, but they also offer home automation, increase home security and keep you updated on who has access to your front door. 

Smart locks are most effective when paired with one of the best home security systems, but they can also be used as standalone products. When purchasing a smart lock, it is important to consider the type of door you have, your budget and any desired features. These will all have an impact on which smart lock works best for your home. 

To help you make an informed decision around your home security, our experts have researched and rated some of the best smart door locks in the UK.

Yale Conexis L2 overview

The Yale Conexis L2 provides a comprehensive smart lock experience, with multiple opening mechanisms for ease of use. A key card and key fob are included in the box, while virtual keys can be allocated for guest access. With no subscription fees, you are not tied to any monthly rolling contract or monitoring fees; however, if you require more than the allotted five virtual keys, you will need to pay extra. 

Yale was awarded the British Standards Institution Internet of Things Kitemark for the Conexis L2, proving it achieved the highest level of security for internet-connected products. It features encrypted Bluetooth technology and a tamper alarm, offering an additional deterrent for anyone who tries to access the door without permission. With the Yale app – available for iOS and Android – you receive real-time notifications if your door is unexpectedly unlocked. When connected to a Yale Smart Lock Module (available at an extra cost), you have the ability to unlock your door from anywhere in the world. 

This smart lock replaces the existing lock on your door. Our researchers found the installation process to be difficult; however, if you are uncomfortable fitting the door handle yourself, Yale does offer Yale Smart Lock Installation for an additional £149.99. To lower the cost, you could also hire a third-party professional to install the lock. Four AA batteries power the lock, but it can be connected to a 12V battery if the batteries suddenly run out. Be warned that there is no manual override option for the Conexis L2. This means that if both battery options are depleted, there is no way to use the smart lock. For this reason, we recommend using the Yale Conexis on a property with alternative access points, such as a back door, to avoid being locked out if something goes wrong.

Our verdict 

Homeowners who value a high level of security and control will appreciate the various security measures of the Yale Conexis L2. Real-time notifications, an integrated alarm and multiple opening mechanisms offer a high level of protection and flexibility. 

However, due to the lack of a manual override, you will need to keep an eye on the battery, since there is no way of operating the smart lock with a traditional key. To alleviate this issue, we recommend keeping a 12V battery on hand (in case the battery dies unexpectedly) or ensuring your home has alternative access routes.

Ultion Nuki smart lock overview 

Two of the biggest names in the door security industry, Nuki and Ultion, joined forces to create the Ultion Nuki smart lock. It can be installed onto existing fittings, with no drilling or wiring required, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts. This smart lock comes with a traditional key but can also be unlocked via geofencing – a type of GPS technology that can sense when your handset is nearby – and a manual thumbturn. Fingerprint and fob access can also be purchased for an additional £194. 

The design of the Ultion Nuki is sleek and discreet, resembling a traditional lock, so it won’t attract any undue attention. The lock mechanism is a three-star PLUS Ultion lock with the highest AV security rating, ensuring a secure experience when using a traditional key. The centre of the Ultion Nuki holds a thumbturn which can lock or unlock the door, with the option for manual operation via the dial. 

When paired with the wireless fingerprint keypad, you can set up to 200 different passwords and lock the door by pressing a single button. For an extra layer of protection, codes can be set to expire at specific dates and times and accessed via fingerprint recognition. The key fob is set to deactivate the lock after two or three presses, ensuring accidental presses won’t unlock the door unintentionally. The app – available on iPhone and Android devices – sends push notifications whenever the door is unlocked or locked. It boasts a clean and easy-to-use interface, with the option to auto lock and grant guest access. It can also be used by Airbnb hosts to send access codes to guests that will expire at the end of their stay. 

Our verdict 

Homeowners who favour DIY installation and physical keys will appreciate the Ultion Nuki smart lock. While the keypad and fob extensions raise the initial price tag to £453 (from £259 for the basic kit), they increase accessibility by offering more unlocking features and the ability to store up to 20 fingerprints, creating an extensive experience for homeowners. 

This smart lock works with Apple HomeKit and IFTTT – access to Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support is achieved via the included wifi bridge – allowing it to be controlled through other smart ecosystems within the home. If you are comfortable with the price tag, the Ultion Nuki is one of the best overall smart locks for those who put a high value on security.

Nuki Smart Lock (4th gen) overview 

The fourth iteration of the Nuki Smart Lock can also be found in a Pro variation, which comes with more features but boosts the price from £169 to £255. The retrofit style can fit over existing European hardware and can be attached via an adhesive or screw kit. The Nuki Smart Lock Pro comes with a keypad that is DIY-friendly, with no wires or drilling needed.

This is the first European lock to feature Matter support – a new smart home interoperability standard that can connect to voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. While the Smart Lock Pro comes with integrated wifi, the base model does not and will require the Nuki Bridge to connect to wifi and, ultimately, other smart home devices. To get the most out of this smart lock, we recommend purchasing the Smart Lock Pro version or buying the Nuki Bridge separately (for £89).

The Nuki app – available on iOS and Android – can open the door, be set to auto unlock when you are in range and automatically lock at specific times (ideal if you regularly forget to lock your front door). When using the keypad, a master code can be set for entry as well as individual codes for guest access. Up to 200 codes can be created via the app and up to 20 fingerprints, although this only works with the second-generation keypad. 

It is worth noting that users will be able to use the independent actions “unlock” and “open door” via Matter, and remote access via Thread is also supported. 

Our verdict 

Support for Matter makes the Nuki Smart Lock a very versatile device. As more devices and brands integrate with the software, users will be able to link multiple devices with their smart lock and experience more control than can be found on a traditional app. 

However, due to the limitations of the base model, homeowners would do better investing in the Smart Lock Pro, which costs £255. Compared with other smart locks, such as the SwitchBot Lock and Yale Conexis L2, Nuki’s offering has limited functionality, but it does offer a simple way to increase your home security.

Although their features vary, smart locks essentially work like any normal lock but with added smart functionality. This is usually achieved through integrated wifi or Bluetooth support, which allows users to connect their smart lock to their phone and, potentially, smart home systems. 

Most smart locks offer multiple ways to access the home, including via digital keys, fingerprint sensors, NFC tags, cards and passcodes. Some of the best smart locks go a step farther, offering real-time notifications via a smartphone, tamper alarms and timed codes that expire upon use. Support for smart home assistants – such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant/Google Home and Apple HomeKit – offers more functionality, allowing users to control their smart lock with multiple devices.

Overall, smart locks provide an added layer of security while also offering more control and convenience for users.

When choosing a new smart lock, here are some of the key factors to keep in mind.

Cost

The cost of smart locks will vary, but, unlike other smart home devices, they seldom come with monthly subscriptions, meaning you will only need to consider the initial outlay when budgeting for a smart door lock.

Types

The type of front door you own will have a major impact on the types of smart locks you can buy. Check which smart locks are replacement deadbolt locks or lever locks and whether they can be placed over existing deadbolts or locks already on your door.

Security

Smart locks come with a variety of opening solutions, including physical keys, fingerprint readers, digital keys, keyless entry, NFC tags, keypad passcodes and smartphone entry. Consider which modes of access will fit your household best.

Compatibility

Some smart locks are compatible with voice assistants, which can offer more control over your smart lock. Certain locks can even be paired with smart home systems, such as Ring or Nest, ideal for anyone with existing smart home devices.

When it comes to installing a new smart lock, consider whether you want help from a professional or you wish to take a DIY approach. Some smart locks are easier to install than others, so check the company’s website to see what they recommend. 

Before you purchase any lock, you will also need to check its installation requirements. In some cases, this requires having an existing deadbolt or a specific door material, such as wood. Some brands will require their smart locks to be paired with a home security system, so check if your existing home security system is compatible. 

The exact installation process for a smart lock will depend on the brand and model, but, generally, you will want to follow these steps:

• Prepare your existing deadbolt/lever 
• Remove the existing mechanism if necessary 
• Attach the new mounting plate 
• Attach your new smart lock
• Connect any necessary wires
• Use the relevant app or home security system to check everything is functioning as intended

Some models, such as the Nuki Smart Lock (4th gen) and SwitchBot Lock, can be placed over your existing lock and attached with an adhesive or screw kit, which makes the process a lot simpler. If you are having trouble installing your smart lock, check the company’s website for instructions and contact customer service if you need more help.