Forgetting keys or worrying about home security can be a daily hassle. With a SmartThings smart lock, you gain seamless control and peace of mind—locking and unlocking your door remotely, granting temporary access to guests, and integrating effortlessly with your existing SmartThings ecosystem. Whether you’re managing a busy household or want smarter home automation, the right lock simplifies life while boosting security.
We analyzed over 50 smart locks, focusing on compatibility, security ratings, user experience, and real-world performance to identify the best SmartThings smart lock options. Key factors include Matter and Z-Wave support, ANSI Grade 1 certification, battery longevity, and ease of DIY installation. Our top picks balance cutting-edge features like fingerprint recognition and geofencing with reliable SmartThings integration. Keep reading to discover the best smart locks that deliver security, convenience, and true smart home harmony.
Best Options at a Glance
Yale Assure Lock Z-Wave Deadbolt
Best Compatibility
- Voice
- Z-Wave
- Ring Alarm, Samsung SmartThings, Wink
- Screwdriver, No new holes
- Batteries included
Level Lock+ (Matter) Smart Lock
Best Overall
- Matter-over-Thread
- Apple Home, Alexa, Google, SmartThings
- DIY, 15-minute
- ANSI Grade 1/A
- Physical key
ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint Matter Lock
Best for Biometrics
- Apple Home, Alexa, Google, SmartThings, IFTTT
- 360° AI-powered
- Fingerprint, App, PIN, Key, Geofencing, Voice
- ANSI Grade 1
- 1 year
ULTRALOQ Bolt Pro Z-Wave Lock
Best Z-Wave Integration
- Z-Wave Plus
- Fingerprint, Codes, Ekeys
- Home Assistant, SmartThings
- IP65 Waterproof
- ANSI Grade 1
eufy Security Smart Lock C34
Best Budget Friendly
- Yes
- App, Keypad, Key, Voice
- 8 months
- 15 minutes
- Built-in, No Hub Required
Level Bolt (Matter) Smart Deadbolt
Best for Existing Locks
- Matter-over-Thread
- Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings
- Keyless Entry
- Via Smart Home Apps
- DIY, No Drilling
Smartthings Smart Lock Review
How to Choose the Right SmartThings Smart Lock
Choosing the right smart lock for your home and integration with SmartThings can significantly enhance your security and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Compatibility & Connectivity
The core benefit of a smart lock is integration with your smart home ecosystem. For SmartThings, ensure the lock explicitly states compatibility. Many locks now support Matter, a unifying connectivity standard, offering broader interoperability with Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa in addition to SmartThings. This future-proofs your investment. Locks offering direct Z-Wave integration are also excellent choices, as SmartThings has robust Z-Wave support. Locks relying solely on Wi-Fi may have less reliable connections and potentially slower response times. If a lock requires a separate hub (like some Matter implementations), factor in that additional cost and complexity.
Entry Methods & Convenience
Consider how you and your family (and guests) typically access your home. Different locks offer various entry methods.
- Fingerprint Scanners: Offer quick, keyless entry and are highly secure. Look for locks with advanced algorithms (like AI-powered recognition) for improved accuracy.
- Keypad Entry: Allows you to create unique PIN codes for family members, guests, or service providers. The ability to set temporary codes is a valuable security feature.
- Smartphone App Control: Remote locking/unlocking is a fundamental smart lock feature.
- Auto-Unlock/Lock (Geofencing): Automatically unlocks the door when you approach and locks it when you leave. This is a convenience feature, but be mindful of potential security implications.
- Physical Keys: Always ensure the lock includes physical keys as a backup in case of power outages or technical issues.
The more entry options a lock provides, the more adaptable it is to your lifestyle.
Security Features & Build Quality
Security is paramount. Look for locks with:
- ANSI Grade 1 Certification: This indicates the highest level of security for deadbolt locks, signifying resistance to picking and forced entry.
- Robust Materials: Stainless steel and strengthened metal alloys are preferable.
- Encryption: Strong encryption (like 128-bit AES) protects your data and prevents unauthorized access.
- Tamper Alerts: Notifications if someone attempts to tamper with the lock.
- Activity Logs: A history of lock/unlock events for monitoring.
Installation & Battery Life
Installation complexity varies. Some locks are designed for easy DIY installation, requiring only a screwdriver, while others might necessitate professional installation. Consider your technical skills and comfort level.
Battery life is also crucial. Locks powered by AA batteries typically offer several months of use, but frequent battery changes can be inconvenient. Look for locks with low-battery alerts to avoid being locked out unexpectedly. Some models offer backup battery options or can be powered externally.
Other Considerations
- Door Compatibility: Confirm the lock fits your door’s thickness and backset.
- Weather Resistance: If the lock will be exposed to the elements, choose one with an IP65 or higher weatherproof rating.
- Aesthetics: Smart locks come in various finishes to match your door hardware.
Smart Lock Comparison
| Product | Smart Home Compatibility | Unlock Methods | Battery Life | Remote Access | Security Rating | Installation | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level Lock+ (Matter) | Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings (via Matter) | App, Apple Home Key, Keypad (optional), Physical Key | Not specified | Yes (via Matter Hub) | BHMA AAA / ANSI Grade 1 | DIY – Screwdriver only | $300 – $400 |
| eufy Security Smart Lock C34 | Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings | App, Keypad, Physical Key, Voice Control | Up to 8 Months | Yes (via HomePod or Hub) | Not specified | DIY – Screwdriver only | $150 – $250 |
| ULTRALOQ Bolt Fingerprint Matter Lock | Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings (via Matter) | Fingerprint, App, PIN Code, Physical Key, Geofencing, Voice Control | 1 Year | Yes (via U home app/3rd party hub) | ANSI Grade 1 | DIY – Screwdriver only | $200 – $300 |
| Level Bolt (Matter) | Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings (via Matter) | App, Voice Control, Physical Key | Not specified | Yes (via Matter Hub) | 6-Stage Stainless Steel Gearbox | DIY – Screwdriver only | $200 – $300 |
| SCHLAGE BE469ZP CAM Smart Deadbolt | Samsung SmartThings, Ring Alarm (Z-Wave) | Touchscreen Keypad, Voice Control | Not specified | Yes (via Z-Wave Hub) | Not specified | DIY – Screwdriver only | $200 – $300 |
| ULTRALOQ Bolt Pro Z-Wave Lock | Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat, Ezlo (Z-Wave) | Fingerprint, Codes, Ekeys, App, Auto Unlock, Physical Key | Not specified | Yes (via Z-Wave Hub) | ANSI Grade 1 | DIY – Screwdriver only | $250 – $350 |
| Yale Assure Lock Z-Wave Deadbolt | Samsung SmartThings, Ring Alarm, Wink (Z-Wave) | Keypad, Physical Key | Not specified | Yes (via Z-Wave Hub) | Not specified | DIY – Screwdriver only | $200 – $300 |
Testing & Data Analysis: SmartThings Smart Lock Evaluation
Our recommendations for SmartThings smart locks aren’t based on subjective impressions; they are driven by rigorous data analysis and research. We prioritize locks demonstrably compatible with the SmartThings ecosystem, verifying functionality through SmartThings app integration testing and user reports. We analyze specifications, focusing on connectivity protocols (Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Matter) and their real-world performance as reported by independent tech reviewers and customer feedback.
Security is paramount. We examine ANSI grading (Grade 1 preferred) and encryption standards (AES 128-bit or higher) documented by manufacturers. Comparative analyses of features – fingerprint scanner accuracy (assessed via reported false rejection rates), keypad responsiveness, and app stability – are conducted using data from publications like PC Mag, CNET, and Wirecutter. Furthermore, we monitor long-term reliability through warranty information and reported failure rates. While physical product testing isn’t always feasible for all models, we leverage extensive user reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy) to identify common issues related to installation, battery life, and build quality of each smart lock. This multi-faceted approach ensures our selections meet stringent performance and security criteria for the SmartThings platform.
FAQs
What is Matter and how does it relate to SmartThings smart locks?
Matter is a unifying connectivity standard that allows smart home devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly. For SmartThings smart locks, Matter compatibility expands interoperability with Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa, in addition to SmartThings, future-proofing your investment.
What security features should I look for in a SmartThings smart lock?
Prioritize SmartThings smart locks with ANSI Grade 1 certification for maximum security. Strong encryption (like 128-bit AES), tamper alerts, and activity logs are also crucial features to protect your home.
Is a Z-Wave smart lock better than a Wi-Fi smart lock for SmartThings?
Generally, Z-Wave locks are preferred for SmartThings due to their more reliable connection and lower power consumption compared to Wi-Fi locks. Z-Wave also operates on a separate frequency, reducing potential interference with your home Wi-Fi network.
Can I still use a physical key with a SmartThings smart lock?
Yes, almost all SmartThings smart locks include physical keys as a backup entry method in case of power outages or technical issues. It’s essential to have a traditional key option for emergencies.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting a SmartThings smart lock hinges on balancing your security needs, desired convenience features, and technical expertise. Prioritize compatibility – whether through direct integration, Z-Wave, or the emerging Matter standard – to ensure seamless control within the SmartThings ecosystem.
Investing in a quality smart lock offers peace of mind and enhanced control over your home’s security. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can confidently choose a smart lock that integrates flawlessly with your SmartThings setup and provides years of reliable performance.





