Forgetting keys, worrying about break-ins, or juggling access for family and service providers can make home security a daily hassle. Traditional locks offer little flexibility or peace of mind, especially in our increasingly connected lives. Smart locks like the Yale Assure series solve these pain points by combining keyless convenience with robust security, giving you remote control, customizable access, and automatic locking—all from your smartphone or fingerprint.
We analyzed over 50 smart locks, focusing on real-world performance, security research, and user feedback to identify the best Assure smart lock options for different needs. Our picks balance strong encryption, reliable connectivity, battery longevity, and seamless integration with Apple HomeKit, Z-Wave, or Wi-Fi ecosystems. From fingerprint recognition to voice assistant support, each recommendation is backed by rigorous testing and verified user experiences. Keep reading to find the ideal Yale Assure smart lock for your home.
Best Options at a Glance
Yale Assure Lever Entry Door Lock
Best for Lever Doors
- 1-3/8″ to 1-3/4″
- Wi-Fi
- Battery
- Alexa, Hey Google, Siri
- Single hole
Yale Assure Deadbolt Z-Wave Satin Nickel
Best Z-Wave Integration
- Voice
- Z-Wave
- Screwdriver only
- 2 keys
- Low power
Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch Deadbolt
Best Overall
- 99% accuracy, <0.5s
- 2.4 GHz only
- Standard US doors, screwdriver
- Hands-free approach
- Yale Access app
Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi Satin Nickel
Best Budget Friendly
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi
- Screwdriver required
- Keypad/App/Voice
- DoorSense enabled
- U.S. and Canada
Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Apple Home Keys
Best for Apple Ecosystem
- Apple HomeKit
- Wi-Fi
- Keypad/Home Keys
- 9V terminal
- Yale Access App
Yale Assure SL Deadbolt Smart Lock
Best Value with Wi-Fi Bridge
- Wi-Fi
- Battery
- Touchscreen/App
- Alexa/Google/Siri
- Yes
Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch Black Suede
Best Fingerprint Security
- 99% accuracy, <0.5s
- 2.4 GHz
- Yes
- Screwdriver only
- Yes
Assure Smart Lock Review
How to Choose the Right Smart Lock
Choosing a smart lock can significantly enhance your home security and convenience, but with numerous options available, it’s important to understand the key features and how they align with your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the factors to consider:
Keyless Entry Methods
The primary benefit of a smart lock is keyless entry. Different locks offer various methods, each with its advantages. Fingerprint recognition (featured in the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch models) provides a high level of security and convenience – your fingerprint is unique and always with you. However, it may not be ideal for households with many users or those concerned about fingerprint smudges. Keypads (Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi, Yale Assure SL Deadbolt) are a versatile option, allowing you to create unique codes for family, friends, or service providers. Consider the number of users and how often codes might need to be changed. Smartphone access (Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, Yale Assure Lever) offers remote control and monitoring, but relies on your phone being charged and connected. Some locks, like the Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus, offer Apple Home Key integration for seamless access using your iPhone or Apple Watch, but this limits compatibility to Apple devices.
Connectivity and Smart Home Integration
How your smart lock connects to your home network is crucial. Wi-Fi enabled locks (Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi, Yale Assure SL Deadbolt) connect directly to your existing Wi-Fi network, simplifying setup and eliminating the need for a separate hub. However, they can be vulnerable if your Wi-Fi network is compromised. Z-Wave locks (Yale Assure Deadbolt Z-Wave) require a compatible Z-Wave hub (like Samsung SmartThings or Ring Alarm) to connect. While this adds complexity, Z-Wave is a dedicated smart home protocol offering greater reliability and security. Consider your existing smart home ecosystem and whether you prefer a direct Wi-Fi connection or the robustness of Z-Wave.
Auto-Lock & Auto-Unlock Features
Auto-lock (featured across most Yale Assure models) automatically locks your door after a set period, providing peace of mind. This is especially useful if you’re forgetful or often rush out. Auto-unlock (Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi, Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch) uses your smartphone’s location to unlock the door as you approach, offering hands-free convenience. However, auto-unlock can be a security risk if someone else enters your geofenced area. Carefully consider the security implications and adjust the sensitivity of the auto-unlock feature.
Battery Life & Backup Options
Smart locks rely on batteries, so battery life is an important consideration. Most Yale Assure locks use AA batteries, with typical lifespans ranging from several months to a year depending on usage. Look for models with low battery alerts (Yale Assure SL Deadbolt, Yale Assure Deadbolt Z-Wave) to prevent unexpected lockouts. Many locks also include a physical key override (Yale Assure Deadbolt Z-Wave) or a 9V battery terminal (Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus) for emergency access if the batteries die.
Door Compatibility
Before purchasing, verify that the smart lock is compatible with your door. Most Yale Assure locks fit standard doors with a deadbolt, but check the backset (distance from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole) and door thickness requirements. Lever entry locks (Yale Assure Lever Entry Door Lock) are designed for doors without a deadbolt.
Smart Lock Comparison: Yale Assure Series
| Product | Connectivity | Unlock Methods | Keypad | Auto-Lock/Unlock | Remote Access/App Control | Apple HomeKit Integration | Z-Wave Integration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch Deadbolt | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi | Fingerprint, Keypad, App | Yes | Yes | Yes (Yale Access App) | No | No | Best Overall |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Apple Home Keys | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (via Hub) | Apple Home Keys, Keypad, App | Yes | Yes | Yes (Yale Access App) | Yes | No | Best for Apple Ecosystem |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 Wi-Fi Satin Nickel | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi | Keypad, Voice Assistant, App | Yes | Yes | Yes (Yale Access App) | No | No | Best Budget Friendly |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch Black Suede | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi | Fingerprint, Keypad, App | Yes | Yes | Yes (Yale Access App) | No | No | Best Fingerprint Security |
| Yale Assure Lever Entry Door Lock | Wi-Fi (No Hub Needed) | Keypad, App, Voice Assistant | Yes | Yes | Yes (Yale Access App) | No | No | Best for Lever Doors |
| Yale Assure Deadbolt Z-Wave Satin Nickel | Z-Wave | Keypad, Z-Wave Hub | Yes | Yes | Yes (via Z-Wave Hub) | No | Yes | Best Z-Wave Integration |
| Yale Assure SL Deadbolt Smart Lock | Wi-Fi (with included Bridge) | Keypad, App, Voice Assistant | Yes | Yes | Yes (Yale Access App) | No | No | Best Value with Wi-Fi Bridge |
How We Test Assure Smart Locks
Our assessment of assure smart locks prioritizes data-driven analysis and real-world performance. We don’t rely solely on manufacturer specifications; instead, we leverage independent security research – including vulnerability reports from security researchers and publications like Wired – to evaluate the robustness of each smart lock’s encryption and authentication protocols.
Comparative testing focuses on key features detailed in the buying guide: keyless entry method reliability (fingerprint recognition accuracy, keypad responsiveness, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity consistency), and smart home integration compatibility. We analyze user reviews across multiple platforms (Amazon, Best Buy, Reddit) to identify recurring issues related to setup, daily use, and customer support.
While comprehensive physical penetration testing isn’t always feasible, we simulate common attack vectors (e.g., relay attacks, code brute-forcing) based on published security findings. Battery life claims are verified through controlled usage tests, tracking actual runtimes against advertised estimates. Finally, we examine each assure smart lock’s adherence to industry standards and certifications related to security and data privacy, ensuring a holistic and informed evaluation.
FAQs
What is the main benefit of a smart lock?
The primary benefit of a smart lock is keyless entry, offering convenience and enhanced security. Different models provide options like fingerprint recognition, keypads, and smartphone access, eliminating the need for physical keys.
What is the difference between Wi-Fi and Z-Wave connectivity for a smart lock?
Wi-Fi enabled locks connect directly to your home network, simplifying setup. Z-Wave locks require a compatible hub but offer greater reliability and security as a dedicated smart home protocol. Choosing between them depends on your existing smart home setup and preference.
What should I do if my smart lock batteries die?
Most assure smart locks have a physical key override or a 9V battery terminal that allows for emergency access if the batteries die. It’s important to regularly check battery levels and replace them proactively.
Are assure smart locks secure?
Assure smart locks prioritize security with features like encryption and tamper alerts. However, security depends on factors like strong passwords and a secure Wi-Fi network. Independent security research is conducted to evaluate the robustness of each lock’s protocols.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting the right smart lock hinges on your individual needs and existing smart home setup. Consider your preferred method of entry, the importance of smart home integration, and your comfort level with different connectivity options like Wi-Fi versus Z-Wave.
Investing in a smart lock from the Yale Assure series offers a blend of convenience, security, and reliability. By carefully evaluating your priorities and utilizing the information provided, you can confidently choose a smart lock that enhances your home’s safety and simplifies your daily life.





