Best Smart Locks of 2026
Smart locks let you control your front door from anywhere, share access codes without cutting keys, and log every entry automatically. In 2026, retrofit models like August make upgrading possible without touching exterior hardware — critical for renters. Whether you want Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit, there is a smart lock below for your setup.
How we ranked smart locks
- Installation simplicity
- Remote access reliability
- Ecosystem compatibility
- Security grade
- Battery life
Top pick reviewed
#1 August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) — $229.99. The best retrofit smart lock in 2026. Mounts over your existing deadbolt interior — exterior hardware and existing keys stay unchanged. Built-in Wi-Fi means no extra bridge needed. DoorSense confirms the door is physically closed before Auto-Lock fires. Works with Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, and SmartThings. See more renter-friendly picks in our best smart home devices for renters guide.
Pros: Fully renter-safe retrofit — no exterior changes · Built-in Wi-Fi, no bridge required · DoorSense + geofence Auto-Unlock.
Cons: 3-6 month battery life on 4 AAs · No Matter support.
Verdict
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen is the top pick for renters and anyone who wants smart access without replacing hardware. Homeowners wanting a full deadbolt replacement with Matter support should look at Schlage Encode Plus or Yale Assure Lock 2. Also see our best Apple HomeKit devices and best Alexa smart home devices.
Top smart lock pick
August Smart Lock
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)Retrofit smart lock — installs in 10 minutes, keeps your existing keys.
- +Mounts over existing deadbolt interior — no exterior changes, fully renter-safe
- +Built-in Wi-Fi — no August Connect bridge required
- −Battery life of 3–6 months on 4 AAs requires periodic replacement
- −No Matter support — relies on August cloud for all remote access