{"id":12830,"date":"2018-10-30T09:25:51","date_gmt":"2018-10-30T14:25:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/therealdaily.com\/?p=12830"},"modified":"2018-10-30T12:56:31","modified_gmt":"2018-10-30T17:56:31","slug":"6-smart-locks-will-knock-off-socks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/homeownership\/6-smart-locks-will-knock-off-socks\/","title":{"rendered":"6 smart locks that will knock off your socks"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Smart locks can offer a great deal of flexibility and convenience, but there are a few things you might want to consider before installing or recommending one to a client. <\/p>\n<p>Smart locks give you and anyone you choose, the freedom to come and go without carrying a key, however, that\u2019s also the first thing you may want to consider: in order for smart locks to be \u201csmart,\u201d they need power. This means you\u2019ll need plenty of good quality batteries and the foresight to change them regularly; otherwise your smart lock won\u2019t function. \u2028\u2028<\/p>\n<p>Also, renters will need to check with the landlord before making any changes to the existing locks, as some leases do not allow you to alter your locks in any way (although there may be a sneaky way around this if folks are so minded, but please bear in mind, you could be evicted or even be breaking the law by installing a smart lock, or any lock, without permission). <\/p>\n<p>Aside from these few considerations, and the rare possibility of the lock malfunctioning, the benefits for most people, over using a traditional, physical key, outweigh the drawbacks. Here are seven of our favorite smart locks on the market: <\/p>\n<p><strong>1. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kwikset.com\/kevo\/smart-lock\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Kevo Kwikset Smart Lock<\/a> ($215)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/kevo-smart-lock.jpg\" alt=\"kevo smart lock\" width=\"970\" height=\"300\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12832\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/kevo-smart-lock.jpg 970w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/kevo-smart-lock-300x93.jpg 300w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/kevo-smart-lock-768x238.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 970px) 100vw, 970px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The Kevo Smart Lock by Kwikset is a favorite for a few reasons. First, Kevo uses a Bluetooth-based close-range authentication system (which is more secure than the geofence auto-unlocking that many other locks utilize). Kevo also gives you several different options for controlling the lock: you can use a physical key, the smartphone app, or a wireless key fob (like the one you likely use for your car). <\/p>\n<p>By accessing the app, you can control eKeys, as well who has access to the eKeys. Kevo also offers a \u201cKevo Plus\u201d upgrade ($100), that allows you to monitor your Kevo when you\u2019re away from home. This includes the Kevo Plus wireless gateway for monitoring. \u2028\u2028To unlock your door, simply tap the top of the door lock and it will communicate with your phone via Bluetooth and unlock; if your phone battery happens to die before you get home, you can use a physical key, the fob, or log in to your Kevo account from another smartphone and your eKeys will be transferred allowing you access. <\/p>\n<p>The Kevo lock uses multiple levels of encryption to increase digital security and contains Kwikset\u2019s patented SmartKey technology, which is tested to the most stringent lock picking, key bumping, and physical security standards. Nothing will be 100% secure, but Kwikset has been manufacturing locks for more than 60 years and the Kevo is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Grade 2. There are 3 levels, 1-3, with number 1 being the highest rated. <\/p>\n<p><strong>2. <a href=\"http:\/\/august.com\/\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">August Smart Lock<\/a> ($200)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/august-smart-lock.jpg\" alt=\"august smart lock\" width=\"970\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12835\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/august-smart-lock.jpg 630w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/august-smart-lock-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 630px) 100vw, 630px\" \/><br \/>\nRemember when I said there might be an exception for apartment dwellers and renters? The August Smart Lock is the exception. It is a good solution (remembering the caveats mentioned above) for renters who want a smart home but aren\u2019t explicitly allowed to change their locks. <\/p>\n<p>The drawback to this lock is, you\u2019ll need a gateway, the August Connect, much like Kevo Plus, for remote access. The August replaced just the interior plate and lever of your existing deadbolt, so the exterior hardware remains unchanged. <\/p>\n<p>You can also add a few accessories: a keypad, the app, and a wireless connection bridge. In order for the August to be compatible with Echo\/Alexa, HomeKit\/Siri, or Google Home\/Assistant, you will need the Wi-Fi Bridge which is not included. There have also been reports that this lock is particularly bad at draining batteries. While it does have a few drawbacks, it is a good choice for anyone happy with their existing locks, but still looking to add a lock to their smarthome setup.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.schlage.com\/en\/home\/keyless-deadbolt-locks\/connect.html\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Schlage Connect Touchscreen Deadbolt<\/a>  ($230)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/schlage.jpg\" alt=\"schlage\" width=\"970\" height=\"478\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12837\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/schlage.jpg 970w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/schlage-300x148.jpg 300w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/schlage-768x378.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 970px) 100vw, 970px\" \/><br \/>\nThe Schlage Connect Touchscreen Deadbolt is the most unique smart lock on this list because you\u2019ll never have to deal with a key or an app to use it. Instead, you use the digital touchscreen. Schlage\u2019s lock integrates with several different home automation systems, including Amazon Alexa. <\/p>\n<p>One of the most unique features about this smart lock is that if anyone tampers with the lock\/door, you\u2019ll be notified and if anyone pushes against the door too forcefully, a piercing alarm will sound and you\u2019ll be alerted to help deter break-ins. Schlage\u2019s lock is also the only lock in this list rated one by ANSI. If you\u2019re looking for a lock that will still let friends and family in without giving out a code, this lock still has you covered. You can lock and unlock from nearly anywhere using Schlage\u2019s Z-Wave\u00ae technology. <\/p>\n<p>This technology was developed by Schlage in 1999 and uses wireless radio frequency (RF) communication for home devices allowing you to give access on-the-go. <\/p>\n<p><strong>4. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yalehome.com\/en\/yale\/yalehome\/residential\/yale-real-living\/assure-lock\/im1-network-module\/\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Yale Assure Lock SL<\/a> ($219)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/yale-smart.jpg\" alt=\"yale smart\" width=\"1020\" height=\"510\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12926\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/yale-smart.jpg 1020w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/yale-smart-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/yale-smart-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><br \/>\nYale Real Living Assure Lock SL is the slimmest smart lock on the market, and if purchased with a Yale iM1 Network Module, it is HomeKit-compatible, so it can be controlled using the Apple Home app, the Yale Secure app, and via Siri voice commands. <\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s available at major retailers, including Lowe\u2019s, Best Buy, PC Richard &#038; Son, and on Amazon. This lock has a reputation for ease of use and reliable integrations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>5. <a href=\"https:\/\/lockitron.com\/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Lockitron Bolt<\/a> ($99)<\/strong> <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/lockitron.jpg\" alt=\"lockitron\" width=\"1001\" height=\"563\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12841\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/lockitron.jpg 1001w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/lockitron-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/lockitron-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/lockitron-1000x563.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px\" \/><br \/>\nThe Lockitron Bolt is a great choice for users looking to try out smart locks, but are also a bit more budget conscious. The Lockitron is compatible with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. <\/p>\n<p>It can be integrated and automated through IFTTT (If This, Then That). If you\u2019re not familiar with IFTTT, <a href=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/?s=ifttt\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">we\u2019ve written extensively about it<\/a>. Lockitron is introducing what they call Key Match, so this will be another great option for renters as this will allow you to keep your current set of house keys and still use a smart lock. Soon, they will also be introducing the Lockitron Bridge so you can control your lock from anywhere in the world, giving you gateway connectivity. The Bolt is more secure than you might think, given the price tag. They use robust encryption using open, published standards. It is secured at both the protocol and application layers and if you\u2019re worried about security, <a href=\"https:\/\/lockitron.com\/security\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">you can check their security page<\/a>. <\/p>\n<p>The Lockitron Bolt gives you a basic, affordable smart lock, with a sleek, easily accessible mechanism that is still secure and functional. If you\u2019re looking for a smart lock with all the bells and whistles, however, the Lockitron Bolt, may not be your best option. <\/p>\n<p><strong>6. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fridaylabs.net\/views\/home-page.html#design\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Friday Lock<\/a> ($249)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/friday.jpg\" alt=\"friday\" width=\"900\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-12842\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/friday.jpg 750w, https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/friday-300x160.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/>\nFriday Lock is a true competitor for the August Smart Lock in a sleeker design. Friday Labs ambitiously bills itself as the world\u2019s smallest smart lock at a mere 2.7\u201d. It is ergonomic, small, and functional for everyone. Friday lock securely connects to your phone wirelessly, giving you the ability to lock or unlock your door as you leave or approach, as well as effortlessly share access with anyone you choose. You\u2019ll also receive notifications on your phone for every action your lock takes (every lock\/unlock). <\/p>\n<p>Friday Lock comes in seven colors and can also be connected with the Apple HomeKit and Secure Remote Access. It works with all single cylinder deadbolts and can easily be installed with a screwdriver. Friday replaces the thumb latch on the inside of your door, so changing out the lock is simple. <\/p>\n<p>It also has a rechargeable battery in the baseplate, saving you money on batteries. While this lock is a bit on the pricey side, Friday rotates 360 degrees, making it compatible with any deadbolt. If you\u2019re looking to add a sleek, small smart lock to your home automation, Friday is a great choice. \u2028\u2028<\/p>\n<p><strong>The takeaway?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>While smart lock technology has come a long way, there are still several things to consider before recommending one to a client or installing one yourself: do you still want to be able to use physical keys? Do you need remote access? Should it be compatible with your home automation system? Are you going to be replacing batteries or recharging them? <\/p>\n<p>And for most people, can you afford to switch out all your locks at once, or will you need to do it one at a time? Smart locks certainly offer a level of convenience that cannot be beat by physical key locks, but there are some drawbacks mentioned above. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>(TECHNOLOGY) Smart locks are a growing part of the smart home &#8211; know these for yourself and\/or your clients and you&#8217;ll be sock-less (get it?).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":335817,"featured_media":12841,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"wds_primary_category":0,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[602],"tags":[1234,588,1763],"class_list":["post-12830","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-homeownership","tag-real-estate-news","tag-smart-home","tag-smart-locks"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2018\/01\/lockitron.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12830","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/335817"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12830"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12830\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12928,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12830\/revisions\/12928"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12841"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12830"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12830"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theamericangenius.com\/housing\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12830"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}