5 Smart Locks That Actually Work on a Budget
I put off getting a smart lock for years because the good ones seemed to start at $200. Turns out there are solid options under $100 that I have been using without issues.
Why I Switched to a Smart Lock
After years of not having a stable place, losing keys was a real anxiety trigger for me. A smart lock with a keypad meant I never had to think about keys again. I just punch in a code or use my phone.
Top Picks
Wyze Lock Bolt – $70. Fingerprint reader, keypad, Bluetooth. Battery lasts about a year. This is what I use on my back door.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) – $95 on sale. Fits over your existing deadbolt so you keep your regular keys too. Great for renters.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro – $89. Six ways to unlock: fingerprint, keypad, phone, key, auto-unlock, shake to open. Works with SmartThings and Home Assistant.
Kwikset Halo – $99. WiFi built in, no hub needed. SmartKey lets you rekey it yourself in 10 seconds.
Schlage Encode Plus – $120. Most expensive here but worth it for Apple Home users. Solid hardware quality.
Installation Tips
Most smart locks replace your existing deadbolt and take 15-30 minutes with a screwdriver. Always keep a physical key backup somewhere safe – smart locks run on batteries.
