As a frequent Airbnb host myself, I know firsthand the importance of finding the right lock for my rental properties. It’s not just about security, but also about convenience and ease of use for both myself and my guests.
The best smart lock for an Airbnb-hosted property needs to have certain capabilities and features that may not always be very obvious at first look. I have tried out a number of different smart locks over the years and have learned which features are essential and which ones are just unnecessary bells and whistles.
Based on my personal experience, I have compiled this list of the top smart locks for Airbnb hosts. I hope my firsthand knowledge and experience can help other hosts find the best lock for their rental properties.
Last update on 2023-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Smart Locks for Airbnb
Schlage Encode
Schlage smart locks have been trusted by many Airbnb hosts because they have proved themselves as one of the best on the market over the years. However, one of their biggest downsides is the higher price compared to other smart locks.
And so is the case with the Schlage Encode.
Schlage Encode is one of the preferred smart locks by many hosts.
It can be accessed remotely and allows you to check the door’s status. You can lock it or unlock it remotely.
You can remotely create and set up to 100 access codes that you can give guests, and there is a detailed history of who has locked or unlocked the door and when.
This lock can be used with a standard physical key which is always a good thing when it comes to rental properties.
The battery life is very good, with many hosts reporting a single battery charge lasting at least several months to as much as a year.
In order for the lock to work, it needs a working Wi-Fi network, and you have to install the app on your phone.
The Schlage Encode has built-in Wi-Fi, allowing it to connect directly to your home wireless network. (This means you do not have to worry about setting up additional hubs or Bluetooth.)
The Schlage Encode can also be operated using Alexa or Google Assistant, and it is compatible with Ring home security devices.
It is also one of the most robust locks on the market with an ANSI/BHMA grade 1.
Furthermore, it has a 3-Year Electronics Warranty and Limited Lifetime Mechanical and Finish Warranty. In comparison, the majority of smart locks usually have a 1-year warranty.
One of the problems with these locks is that they do not perform best in high humidity, which should be considered depending on your location.
For a more automated experience, Schlage Encode locks can be used with RemoteLock, which can then be connected to Airbnb. The RemoteLock app is worth considering because it allows for a great deal of customization and easier management, including renaming locks and locations and more.
Check the video below for a quick overview of the Schlage Encode.
Schlage offers an upgraded version which is called the Encode Plus.
The Encode and Encode Plus are very similar. However, the biggest difference is that the Encode Plus works with Apple HomeKit and can be operated with the HomeKey feature on Apple devices, which most hosts may not really need.
It is also very quiet, which is not necessarily a good thing when it comes to rental properties. (More on that you can find in the buyer’s guide below.)
Though it is an excellent premium smart lock for homeowners, I do not consider the Encode PLus a must-have for Airbnb hosts due to how expensive it is.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The new 4th generation August smart lock is another popular pick by many Airbnb hosts. And there is a good reason for that.
To begin, it does not need any intermediary bridges or hubs as it can connect directly to your existing Wi-Fi network. (The older generations required a hub that connects the lock to your Wi-Fi network. However, that is not the case with the new 4th generation.)
The lock is capable of auto-unlocking once you get home (it uses geo-fencing). However, a lot more helpful to hosts is the lock’s capability of automatically locking the door after a preset amount of time.
The August lock can be accessed and managed remotely by using the dedicated app.
You can assign an unlimited amount of access codes and monitor who locks and unlocks the door and when they do it.
The advantages of the August Wi-Fi smart lock are that it is reliable, easy to install, and well-priced.
However, one of its downsides is that the battery life is not great and may require more frequent maintenance from the hosts to ensure it is well-charged at all times.
Check out this video below for a quick overview of the August smart lock.
It is worth mentioning that August is in partnership with Airbnb, which presents hosts with several benefits.
First, the Airbnb app synchronizes automatically with the August app, and when a reservation is booked, guests will automatically receive an entry code and instructions on how to access the rental property.
The access key sent to the guests is valid for the duration of their stay and is automatically updated in instances where the reservation dates have been changed or the reservation has been canceled.
For the guests to enter their access codes, the August Smart Keypad must be purchased. (All the necessary equipment is also sold as a bundle called “Smarter Hosting Bundle”.)
Alternatively, guests can be given access to the rental property through the August app, meaning they have to install the app on their phones.
Wyze Smart Lock
If you are looking for some of the most important functions at a budget-friendly price but are not too worried about having all the bells and whistles, Wyze is definitely worth your attention.
With the Wyze lock, you can set multiple different access codes and set the app to notify you every time somebody opens or locks the door or if the door has been left unlocked and set it to lock automatically as long as the door is closed. You can also view the access history of each entry key used in the app.
If you want your guests to be able to enter the property by using a code, you will need to buy the Wyze Lock Keypad, which is sold separately. That way, they will not have to install the Wyze app on their phones.
Overall, Wyze smart locks are not something to write home about compared to some other smart locks offered by other brands.
However, they work really well. The build quality and battery life are good, and they work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
One of the notable advantages of Wyze smart locks is that they are significantly cheaper than other brands, making them the preferred choice by hosts looking for a budget-friendly alternative.
Check this video review below for a more hands-on take on this smart lock.
Yale Assure SL Deadbolt
Yale is one of the well-known brands in the niche. Yale Assure SL deadbolt is definitely one of their better smart locks. Some hosts have been using it for a while and have had really good success with it.
One of the problems is that the lock may be trickier to set up initially.
Also, the lock needs to be purchased with the Yale Access Kit, which allows the Assure SL Deadbolt to make full use of the Yale Access app by allowing the deadbolt to connect to your existing Wi-Fi network.
With this kit, you will be able to monitor the door, lock activity, set the deadbolt to lock and unlock the door automatically when you are close to it, and manage remote access.
Yale Assure SL deadbolt is compatible with the August app as well and is suitable for four-season locations.
For a quick look at how this lock works check the video below.
Yale Assure Lock Keypad
The Yale Assure Lock Keypad is very similar to the Assure SL Deadbolt.
It, too, offers auto locking and unlocking of the door when you are nearby. You can assign entry keys, see who enters and leaves your property, and check the door’s status. If the door is closed but left unlocked, it will automatically lock it.
It works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit.
However, the Yale Assure Lock Keypad offers a few notable differences.
First, this model is with actual buttons instead of a touchscreen. Touchscreens have a certain drawback where they may not work well over time when exposed to certain elements and factors such as sand, salt, sweat, hand lotions, and sunscreen oils.
Some hosts prefer keypads as they make operating the lock more seamless and lower the odds of potential problems and the need for regular maintenance.
Another advantage to this model is that it can be operated using a standard physical key.
Lastly, the lock is suitable for four-season locations as it can withstand even very low winter temperatures.
It also comes with the Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, so you can connect it to your Wireless network easily.
It is definitely not one of the cheapest smart locks on the market but also not as expensive as some other popular models.
UltraLoq U-Bolt WiFi
The U-Bolt Wi-Fi is one frequently overlooked smart lock, but it is a good choice. It is a very inexpensive smart lock with plenty of features and excellent built quality. (It is ANSI Grade 1 certified.)
This lock can be used with a physical key, access code, a smartphone, or an Apple watch. It also works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings.
It does not need a Bluetooth or a Wi-Fi bridge because it has the necessary hardware already built into it, allowing it to immediately connect to your existing wireless network without any additional equipment.
UltraLoq U-Bolt Wi-Fi can also automatically lock the door behind you only as long as it is closed.
Keep in mind that there are several different models offered.
The one with the external Wi-Fi bridge is not capable of offering the auto-lock feature.
It can be accessed remotely. You can assign guest codes. It will notify you when somebody locks or unlocks the door, and you can browse through the detailed log history when necessary.
Check this quick overview of the U-Bolt below:
Kwikset Halo With Electronic Keypad
The Kwikset Halo is one of those locks that may easily be overlooked when researching the best smart locks for Airbnb rental properties. However, it certainly deserves some consideration.
It offers all the features hosts would need.
- Remote management of entry keys and allowing up to 250 different access codes to be set up, including the capability of setting up a single-use code.
- Remote locking and unlocking.
- Detailed log history of when the door has been locked or unlocked and who did it, including real-time notifications.
- Automatic locking of the door.
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
Something that you do not see often is that the Kwikset Halo also has a 20-minute fire rating. What that means is that in the case of a house fire, the lock will continue to operate for at least 20 minutes, and it also meets the highest ANSI/BHMA grade.
There are two versions of this lock: one with a touchscreen and another with a keypad with physical buttons.
I personally like the one with the buttons better. These locks are sturdier, operate better under many different conditions, and are generally slightly cheaper than comparable touchscreen models.
Lastly, the locking and unlocking motor is somewhat louder and can easily be heard from a distance. This is a good feature and could, in fact, be considered an advantage, as further explained later in the buyer’s guide section of this article.
The only downside to this lock is that the battery life could be better. That said, the lock will produce beeps and will flash when the batteries are running low.
For an in-depth look at the Kwikset Halo, you can check this detailed review of the lock below.
Eufy Smart Touch & Wi-Fi Lock
Eufy is a brand that has been slowly gaining traction and popularity over the years.
The Eufy Smart Touch is an excellent smart lock that comes at a very fair price.
The lock is designed to work in both cold and hot weather, so it is suitable for four-season locations.
It can be opened or locked using 4 different methods:
- A physical key.
- Keypad.
- The Eufy app.
- A fingerprint.
What’s more, this lock comes with a built-in sensor that monitors the status of the door. If the door is closed but left unlocked, it will lock it automatically. This is very useful as it will not try to lock the door while it is kept ajar.
It is a sturdy and very durable lock which is good news for hosts because guests can be a little rough on these locks.
There are a couple of variations to this lock, and depending on your preferences, the basic model may be more than enough for some hosts. However, the basic model offers limited functionality.
In comparison, the Wi-Fi-enabled model allows for remote access and management of the lock and is, generally, the better choice.
Safely S Smart Lock
If you are looking for a budget-friendly smart lock, this one may be worth checking out.
It is a lock that is designed with Airbnb rental properties in mind, allowing for remote access code generation and management.
It can be used in several different ways:
- With a physical key.
- With a key fob.
- With a passcode.
- With a smartphone (and the app).
- With a fingerprint.
One of the downsides is that the remote access to the lock is available only through a Wi-Fi hub, which is sold separately. When paired with the hub, it can also be used with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
However, even when the lock is purchased together with the hub, it still remains on the cheaper end of the spectrum compared to many other locks.
The lock is suitable for four-season locations. However, it may not be your best bet if you have very harsh winters, as its operational temperature goes as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius).
The lock allows you to set up more than 150 access keys and can even be used with more than 200 key fobs, which can be purchased separately, and it also comes with 3 physical keys.
Another thing to consider is that this lock cannot be rekeyed, so if you lose the physical keys, you might get yourself in trouble. On top of that, if you are managing multiple properties, you will end up carrying multiple different keys, which can be a real hassle.
Nuki Smart Lock 3 Pro
The Nuki Smart Lock 3 Pro lock is easy to set up because it has a built-in Wi-Fi module and can connect directly to your existing wireless network without needing additional hubs or devices.
It can be controlled remotely, allowing you to assign up to 200 access keys, monitor the status of the door, and see who has locked or unlocked it and when. You can also remotely lock or unlock the door if necessary.
It works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit and is one of the few locks designed to work with the Airbnb app.
The partnership with Airbnb allows you to make use of some neat features.
For example, guests can receive their access key after booking, which is valid for the duration of their stay. You can adjust when they can receive their access details and where they receive them.
The lock can be operated using the Nuki phone app, physical key, or the Nuki keypad (which is sold separately).
It is recommended to use the keypad as this is the easiest way to provide guests with access to the property. Otherwise, they will have to install the Nuki app on their phone.
One of the important factors is that Nuki does not recommend using the lock in very cold weather below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (or 10 degrees Celsius). So it may not be suitable for locations that have harsh winters.
What’s more, Nuki locks are designed to fit the standard European-style cylinder profiles, so those locks may be a good option for rental properties in Europe.
Amazon Basics Traditional Electronic Keypad Deadbolt
For hosts that are not interested in anything fancy but want something super cheap, run-of-the-mill, and reliable, the lock offered by Amazon themselves is definitely a good pick.
The lock allows for up to 6 access codes to be set up. (One-time passcodes can also be set up.)
Those codes have to be manually saved or deleted as the lock is not capable of remote access and control.
It is easy to program and set up and allows hosts to manage guests without having to hand out physical keys all the time.
User codes can be completely switched off, in which case the deadbolt will work the same way standard deadbolts do—with a physical key only.
There is also an auto-lock feature, and the time before it activates can be adjusted, or it can be completely switched off if it is giving you problems. Keep in mind that the auto-lock will activate even if the door is left ajar.
It definitely lacks many smart features that other smart locks have. However, it comes at a fraction of their price as well.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Smart Lock for Airbnb
As someone who has been hosting Airbnb properties for several years, I have firsthand experience with the importance of a reliable and secure smart lock. Not only do these locks offer added convenience for both hosts and guests, but they also provide an extra layer of security for both parties.
Over the years, I have tried and tested a number of different smart locks on the market and have learned the key features and considerations to take into account when choosing the best one for my Airbnb properties.
When purchasing a smart lock for an Airbnb rental property, several things should be considered.
Remote Access
The ability to remotely set, change, or remove access codes is a must-have—especially for hosts who are managing multiple rental properties and are off-site.
This function allows for seamless management and automation of the whole process, making it easier for both hosts and guests.
If you had to be home every time you needed to change anything, then chances are you will end up going back to the key system because it’s just easier.
Detailed history and entry notifications
The next functionalities that should also be considered a must-have are the ability to receive real-time notifications when somebody uses their entry code and the ability to view a detailed history of when the different codes have been used.
This is important not just for monitoring when guests are entering and leaving your rental property but also other people, such as cleaners.
Two more functions that should not be overlooked are the capability to be notified if the door has been left unlocked and the ability to lock the door automatically.
Entry method
One of the things that may easily be missed when picking a smart lock is how it provides access.
One of the best ways to provide access is to assign entry codes.
However, not all smart locks have a keypad where the code can be entered, which means that the only way they can access your property is to download the app associated with the smart lock.
This can be a hassle. It can be confusing and too complicated for some guests as they may not want to download and learn how to use a new app.
Thus locks that have a keypad are considered a better pick. Locks that can be opened with a regular physical key are also a great pick—especially in case the battery dies.
Integration capabilities
Usually, hosts find simpler smart locks that are easier to use and allow for remote operation and management the best. However, depending on what other smart devices and systems you use, the integration capabilities of the lock may be important for you.
Durability and sturdiness (Lock Rating)
Locks can have an ANSI/BHMA rating, which is a standard for residential hardware and is completely voluntary.
To receive an ANSI/BHMA rating, a lock is tested in three separate categories:
- Security
- Durability
- Finish
Then the lock is assigned a grade:
- Grade 3 (C) is considered good.
- Grade 2 (B) is considered better.
- Grade 1 (A) is considered best.
As a result, the highest ANSI/BHMA rating possible is 1 or AAA.
A rating like that can provide you with a good idea of how durable, sturdy, long-lasting, secure, and tamper-proof a lock is.
The logic here is very straightforward—the higher the rating, the better the lock.
This is very important because one of the things that many hosts will stumble upon is that sometimes guests may force the door or locks if they haven’t read the instructions or have not understood how to use the smart lock.
Another thing to note is that the lock does not have to be completely silent. This may be a desirable feature for your private home, but on a rental property may not be a good idea.
A completely silent lock may confuse guests in terms of whether the lock has been locked or unlocked, and they may try to push on the door more often than necessary.
Hosts have also reported instances where guests have tampered with the smart lock and switched off connection hubs and internet modems.
Thus a lock that does not have multiple components is usually a better pick. And keeping modems and smart home hubs in a locked pantry is usually preferred.
Security
If you are using Airbnb to rent out your space, it is crucial to know that your guests will not have access to your smart home once they leave. Many smart locks are not advanced enough to revoke access privileges for people. This is a severe security threat if you have any sort of valuables in your smart home.
When you are looking for a smart lock, make sure that you know the process that people take to add and revoke access to different people, preferably giving people access for a certain amount of time and then having it revoked automatically once their stay is over. It is never worth risking your home security for convenience!
Ease Of Use
Handing somebody a key for a few days is really simple, so for a smart lock to impress me, it needs to take a straightforward process and make it easier and simpler.
The old adage “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it” really applies here. Since you are limited to using keys right now, you might be really frustrated and think that your current system really is broken. I will warn you that sometimes smart locks aren’t the solution.
Most of the time, they really are the solution, though. Many of these apps let you add and remove permissions remotely. I find it to be really important to have a smart lock that other people can understand.
Some locks require somebody to download the lock specific app instead of using a code or the Airbnb app, which is frustrating.
There is nothing more frustrating than having to teach somebody how to use your simple door lock. I can see myself getting tired of that!
Guest Management
Many smart locks have this feature, but very few make it so easy as this lock.
The biggest issue that I find is that most smart locks still require your guests to have a decent amount of smartphone knowledge, and even make them download the app.
Personally, I wouldn’t say I like it when people make me download an app that I am only going to use once and then never think about it again.
Installation
Smart locks are designed to make your life easier, but they require a bit of assembly to work correctly. Every single person debating on whether or not they want a smart lock should consider these things carefully to decide if a smart lock is right for their situation.
Many smart locks are straightforward in that they are installed on the inside of the door on top of your already existing deadbolt. These locks can take as little as 10 minutes to get started. Some other locks require a complete overhaul of your current door handle/ lock system.
The Price Tag: Is It Worth It?
The price tag is definitely a factor to consider when it comes to purchasing a smart lock for your Airbnb property. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option available, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. A cheaper smart lock may not have the same level of security or reliability as a more expensive one, and this could end up costing you more in the long run if the lock fails or becomes compromised.
On the other hand, it’s also important to consider whether or not a more expensive smart lock is worth the investment. Some high-end smart locks may come with additional features that may not be necessary for your Airbnb property, and it might not make sense to pay for those extra features if you won’t be using them.
Ultimately, it’s important to find a balance between cost and value when it comes to choosing a smart lock for your Airbnb property. Consider the features and capabilities that are most important to you, and look for a lock that offers those features at a price that is reasonable for your budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right smart lock for your Airbnb property is crucial for ensuring the security and convenience of both yourself and your guests. By considering the features that are most important for your specific needs, you can find a lock that works best for your property.
And now that you’ve learned about the top options on the market, you have the knowledge and tools to make an informed decision. So take what you’ve learned and put it into action, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful and stress-free Airbnb rental experience.
Are Smart Locks Insurance Approved?
Do you use the exact same smart lock for both the front and back doors?
I recommend using the same smart lock model for both the front and back doors for convenience and uniform security, as long as the doors have similar installation and feature requirements. This approach simplifies management and maintenance. However, ensure the selected model meets high security standards to mitigate any risk of having identical locks.