6 Best Proximity Smart Locks of 2025

The eufy FamiLock S3 Max doesn’t just unlock your door—it redefines what a smart lock can be. With palm vein recognition that unlocks in 0.6 seconds and boasts 99.9% accuracy, this is biometric security that feels like science fiction made real. Unlike fingerprint scanners that fail with dirty hands or facial recognition that struggles in low light, the vein pattern scanner works flawlessly in any condition, offering a forgery-proof, hygienic entry method that even spoofing attempts can’t crack. It’s not just a lock—it’s a 2K HDR camera, video doorbell, and rear video screen all in one, solving the age-old problem of who’s at the door without pulling out your phone.

In real-world testing, the 150° ultra-wide f/1.6 lens captured crisp footage day and night, with excellent low-light performance and no blind spots—perfect for monitoring porch pirates or checking on kids arriving home. The rear lock screen is a game-changer for households with elderly members or young children who aren’t smartphone-savvy, offering instant, app-free visibility. The dual power system kept it running through extended outages, with the main battery lasting over three months and the AAA backup seamlessly taking over. However, while Matter compatibility enables smooth integration with Apple Home and Alexa, camera streaming isn’t supported via Matter, meaning you’ll need the eufy App for full functionality—a minor friction point for privacy-focused users.

When stacked against the Kwikset Halo or Yale Assure Lock 2, the FamiLock S3 Max stands out as the most feature-rich option, trading simplicity for all-in-one dominance. It’s overkill for minimalist smart home users but ideal for families wanting comprehensive front-door security without multiple devices. While the Yale excels in auto-lock reliability via DoorSense, and the Kwikset leads in geofencing, the FamiLock S3 Max delivers unmatched integration of biometrics, video, and local privacy—all while storing palm data on-device, not in the cloud. It’s the most technologically advanced package here, offering broader capabilities than even the TCL D2 Pro, albeit at a higher cost.

The Yale Assure Lock 2 enters the ring as the most reliable auto-locking smart lock on the market, thanks to its DoorSense technology that knows when your door is truly closed. This isn’t just convenience—it’s peace of mind. With auto-unlock as you approach and hands-free access via smartphone or Apple Watch, it eliminates fumbling with keys while ensuring your home stays locked. The clean design, premium build, and ANSI Grade 1 certification signal durability, while Wi-Fi integration means remote control without a hub—perfect for users who want set-it-and-forget-it security without complexity.

Performance shines in daily routines: DoorSense reliably triggered auto-lock within seconds of closure, even with slight door gaps, and auto-unlock worked consistently within a 10-foot radius. The touchscreen keypad responded quickly, and the Yale Access App offered smooth remote access, guest code sharing, and real-time alerts. It integrates cleanly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home, though 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only limits compatibility with newer tri-band routers. While it lacks a camera or biometrics, its simplicity and reliability make it a top pick for users prioritizing dependable automation over bells and whistles.

Compared to the Kwikset Halo, the Yale Assure Lock 2 offers superior auto-lock precision thanks to DoorSense, which the Kwikset lacks. While the Halo wins on geofencing responsiveness, Yale’s physical door confirmation is a more foolproof approach. It’s less flashy than the eufy FamiLock S3 Max, but for users who want bulletproof locking assurance without video or biometrics, it’s the smarter, more focused choice. It delivers better automation accuracy than any other model here, making it ideal for busy households or frequent travelers who need trustworthy, hands-off security.

The Kwikset Halo is the geofencing champion, delivering seamless auto-unlock the moment you pull into the driveway. Powered by Wi-Fi and GPS, it detects your phone’s location and unlocks the door without lifting a finger—a dream for grocery-laden trips or late-night returns. The backlit touchscreen is responsive, and the Grade AAA certification ensures robust mechanical durability, while intrusion detection alerts you to tampering or repeated wrong codes. For users who want effortless entry and solid smart home integration, this lock delivers where it counts.

In real-world use, the geofence reliably activated within 30–50 feet, faster than most competitors, and auto-lock timers (15 sec to 4 min) let you customize security vs convenience. The Kwikset app made sharing temporary, scheduled codes a breeze—perfect for dog walkers or Airbnb guests. Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant worked smoothly, and no hub requirement simplified setup. However, auto-unlock occasionally lagged in dense urban areas with spotty GPS, and the lack of DoorSense means it can’t confirm the door is fully closed, a slight reliability gap versus Yale.

Against the Yale Assure Lock 2, the Halo trades physical door confirmation for faster, more responsive geofencing. It’s not as precise in auto-locking as Yale, but its location-based unlocking feels more intuitive for daily use. Compared to the eufy C30, it offers far superior features and build quality, justifying its higher cost. For users who value smartphone-based access and guest management, the Kwikset Halo strikes the best balance of performance, security, and usability—making it the top pick for geofencing enthusiasts.

The TCL D2 Pro brings next-gen palm vein security to the mid-range, offering a hygienic, touch-free entry experience that feels like the future. Its AI-powered vein scanner delivers faster, more secure recognition than fingerprint locks, immune to smudges, dirt, or spoofing—ideal for families or high-traffic homes. With an 8-month battery life from its 10,000mAh USB-C rechargeable pack, it outlasts nearly every competitor, and the IP55 rating ensures resilience against rain and dust. This is a feature-packed, value-forward lock that punches above its weight.

Testing revealed near-instant palm recognition in both daylight and darkness, with zero false unlocks. The built-in doorbell paired seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing voice announcements when someone rang. The TCL Home App provided clear activity logs and easy guest access, though the interface felt slightly less polished than eufy or Kwikset. While it lacks a rear screen or 2K camera, it matches the eufy S3 Max in biometric performance at nearly half the price. However, no DoorSense or auto-unlock proximity detection means it can’t auto-lock based on door closure, relying instead on timers.

Against the eufy FamiLock S3 Max, the TCL D2 Pro sacrifices integrated video and rear display but retains core palm vein security at a much lower cost. It’s not as comprehensive as the eufy, but for users who prioritize biometric accuracy and long battery life over video features, it’s the smarter buy. It also beats the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro in battery longevity and weather resistance, though it offers fewer access methods. For security-first users wanting premium biometrics without premium pricing, the TCL D2 Pro is the clear standout.

The eufy Security Smart Lock C30 is the undisputed value king, offering core smart lock functionality for under $60. Don’t let the price fool you—this lock packs built-in Wi-Fi, remote app control, auto-lock, and voice integration with Alexa and Google, all without requiring a hub. Its physical buttons (not touchscreen) are surprisingly durable, resisting wear and moisture better than glass panels, and the low battery indicator prevents surprise shutdowns. For budget-conscious users who want reliable, no-frills automation, this is the most affordable gateway into smart home security.

In real-world use, the lock responded quickly to app commands, and auto-lock worked flawlessly on a 30-second timer. The mechanical key backup provided peace of mind during power tests, and the wrong-try protection temporarily locked the system after three failed attempts—effective against brute-force attacks. It handled extreme temperatures (-22℉ to 158℉) without issue, and the IPX3 rating kept it functional in light rain. However, it lacks geofencing, biometrics, and video, and the 4 AA batteries (not included) mean upfront costs add up. It’s basic, but remarkably capable for the price.

Compared to the Kwikset Halo, the C30 sacrifices geofencing and premium build but delivers essential smart features at a fraction of the cost. Against the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro, it’s less feature-rich but more than sufficient for users who want remote access and auto-lock without complexity. It’s not for those seeking advanced security or automation, but for renters, secondary doors, or first-time smart lock adopters, it’s unbeatable value. It proves you don’t need fancy biometrics or cameras to get real smart home benefits.

The ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro is the Swiss Army knife of smart locks, offering 8-in-1 access methods—from AI fingerprint ID to eKey sharing, web portal control, and voice commands. This is maximum flexibility: whether you’re using fingerprint, keypad, app, auto-unlock, or mechanical keys, there’s always a way in. Its IP65 rating makes it one of the most weather-resistant models, ideal for exposed entryways, and ANSI Grade 1 certification confirms its robust internal strength. For users who want every possible entry option, this lock delivers unmatched versatility.

In testing, the fingerprint scanner was fast and accurate, recognizing fingers in under a second, even with slight moisture. Auto-unlock via smartphone worked within 15 feet, and the door sensor reliably reported open/closed status in the app. The U Home app offered detailed logs and easy guest access, though it felt slightly less intuitive than Kwikset or Yale. The 10-minute installation lived up to promises, fitting standard doors without adjustments. However, auto-unlock occasionally failed in areas with weak Bluetooth, and the lack of palm vein or facial recognition keeps it from matching the eufy or TCL in biometric innovation.

Against the eufy FamiLock S3 Max, the U-Bolt Pro trades camera and palm security for broader access methods and weather resistance. It’s not as high-tech as the TCL D2 Pro, but it offers more entry options and better outdoor durability. For Airbnb hosts, property managers, or large families needing flexible, resilient access, it’s the most practical, multi-user solution. It delivers greater access diversity than any other model, making it the top choice for shared or high-traffic homes.