Best Smart Door Locks 2025: Secure, Keyless & Matter-Compatible
Updated October 2025
Tested by Alex Rivera
Smart Security Enters the Matter Era
Smart door locks have evolved from niche gadgets into mainstream home security solutions. In 2025, they are faster, more secure, and better connected than ever. With most leading brands now supporting Matter—the universal smart home protocol—your next lock can connect seamlessly to Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home without separate bridges or apps. That makes setup easier, response times faster, and ecosystems more reliable.
The new generation of locks focuses on three pillars: security, convenience, and compatibility. AES-128 encryption protects access data, biometric fingerprint scanners add frictionless entry, and improved battery life means less maintenance. Whether you want a sleek, invisible retrofit lock or a full replacement deadbolt with fingerprint access, this guide highlights the best smart locks you can buy in 2025 for every home type and budget.
We tested more than 20 models across categories, evaluating installation difficulty, reliability, app usability, and integration with major ecosystems. The locks below excelled in performance, user experience, and real-world practicality.
Editor’s Picks for Best Smart Door Locks (2025)
| Model | Best For | Connectivity | Key Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best Overall | Wi-Fi / Matter / Bluetooth | Fast pairing + high security | 9.8 / 10 |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | Best Budget Retrofit | Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | No replacement needed | 9.5 / 10 |
| Level Bolt | Best Invisible Design | Bluetooth / Matter | Fits inside existing deadbolt | 9.4 / 10 |
| Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Max | Best Fingerprint Access | Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | Quick biometric unlock | 9.6 / 10 |
| Lockly Vision Elite | Best Luxury / Camera Integration | Wi-Fi / Camera / Fingerprint | Video door lock | 9.3 / 10 |
| Eufy Security C210 | Best Value Smart Lock with Camera | Wi-Fi / App / Fingerprint | Affordable 3-in-1 combo | 9.1 / 10 |
All six models below were evaluated for ease of installation, responsiveness, app design, and security reliability. The Yale Assure Lock 2 leads the pack as the best overall option, balancing Matter compatibility, solid build quality, and an intuitive user experience.
Yale Assure Lock 2 (Matter-Compatible, Keypad + Bluetooth)
The Yale Assure Lock 2 earns our top spot for its combination of style, functionality, and cutting-edge Matter integration. It’s available in touchscreen, keypad, and key-free versions, offering complete flexibility for different users. Installation takes about 20 minutes using standard tools and fits most single-cylinder deadbolts.
Yale’s new Wi-Fi module now supports both Matter and Thread, allowing the lock to communicate directly with smart home platforms without relying on cloud servers. This results in faster unlocks and improved privacy.
Pros
- Matter + Thread support future-proofs the device
- App and keypad access, plus backup key option
- Tamper alerts and auto-relock for added safety
- Beautiful slimline design available in multiple finishes
Cons
- Requires 4 AA batteries (6–9 month life)
- Touchscreen can be less responsive in direct sunlight
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)
If you’re renting or want a smart lock without replacing your entire deadbolt, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is still the best retrofit model on the market. It installs inside your existing lock in under 10 minutes—no need for new holes, tools, or door adjustments.
The compact design is 45% smaller than previous generations and now includes integrated Wi-Fi, removing the need for a separate Connect Bridge. Its app is intuitive and includes real-time activity logs, auto-unlock proximity detection, and guest access scheduling for visitors or cleaners.
Pros
- Quick installation with no external modification
- Strong app features with precise access control
- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit
- Low-profile, modern design fits interior aesthetics
Cons
- No Matter support (yet)
- Shorter battery life (~3–4 months)
Level Bolt Invisible Smart Lock (Matter-Ready)
The Level Bolt is the most discreet smart lock available in 2025, offering complete invisibility from the outside. It installs inside your existing deadbolt hardware, so your front door retains its original aesthetic while gaining app-based and voice control.
This design choice appeals to homeowners who prefer minimalism or need to comply with HOA exterior appearance rules. With full Matter readiness and Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity, Level Bolt integrates smoothly with HomeKit and Alexa. Installation takes 20–30 minutes with a screwdriver—no drilling required.
Pros
- Invisible design maintains door’s original appearance
- Matter support ensures multi-platform compatibility
- Quiet motor operation and auto-lock/unlock
- Simple installation using existing deadbolt housing
Cons
- No fingerprint sensor or keypad option
- App setup can be slightly finicky during initial pairing
These three locks dominate the market in 2025 for different reasons. The Yale Assure Lock 2 is ideal for most homes wanting reliable security and modern integration. The August Wi-Fi Lock is perfect for renters or those who don’t want to alter door hardware. And the Level Bolt remains the top pick for design-conscious users who want automation without visible tech.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Max (Fingerprint + Wi-Fi + Matter)
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Max brings biometric convenience to the mainstream with its ultra-fast fingerprint reader and robust wireless design. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Matter, letting you unlock your door in under half a second with a single touch. The build quality is excellent, featuring a zinc alloy body rated for ANSI Grade 1 security.
Installation is simple: remove your old deadbolt, insert the included mounting plate, and connect the color-coded wiring harness. Within 15 minutes, the lock pairs to the Ultraloq app, offering remote monitoring, access logs, and customizable auto-lock timing. You can also generate time-limited entry codes for guests or cleaners.
Pros
- Fast and reliable fingerprint reader
- Supports Matter, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
- Weatherproof design (IP65 rating)
- Advanced access management via app
Cons
- Bulky exterior design compared to others
- Requires frequent calibration for optimal fingerprint accuracy
Lockly Vision Elite (Fingerprint + Camera + Solar Charging)
For homeowners who want everything in one package, the Lockly Vision Elite combines a smart lock, fingerprint reader, doorbell camera, and solar panel charger into a single premium device. It’s expensive but unmatched in features. The camera streams live 1080p video directly to the Lockly app, with motion alerts and two-way audio.
The solar panel keeps the internal battery charged year-round, and the lock automatically records door access events. Unlike traditional cameras, this unit stores encrypted data locally rather than relying solely on cloud subscriptions—enhancing privacy for security-conscious buyers.
Pros
- All-in-one design with camera and fingerprint reader
- Solar charging eliminates battery swaps
- Offline local video storage
- Durable aluminum housing with weather sealing
Cons
- Large exterior module design
- High price point compared to competitors
Eufy Security Smart Lock C220 (Camera + Fingerprint + App)
The Eufy C220 delivers an impressive mix of performance and affordability, making it our best value pick for 2025. It combines a 2K door camera, fingerprint reader, and auto-lock feature—all for under $250. It integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant and stores footage locally via the Eufy app without requiring a subscription.
Setup is straightforward using Eufy’s step-by-step visual guide. Battery life averages six months, and the rechargeable pack uses USB-C for easy top-offs. The fingerprint reader unlocks within one second, while the motion-activated camera captures events instantly, reducing false alerts compared to 2023 models.
Pros
- Excellent value for full-featured smart lock
- Integrated 2K camera with local storage
- Quick fingerprint unlock
- Subscription-free access logs and alerts
Cons
- Not Matter-compatible
- Limited customization of motion zones
Smart Door Lock Comparison (2025)
| Model | Connectivity | Matter Support | Biometric Access | Camera | Battery Life | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Wi-Fi, Thread, Bluetooth | ✅ | Optional | ❌ | 6–9 mo | 9.8 |
| August Wi-Fi Smart Lock | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | 3–4 mo | 9.5 |
| Level Bolt | Bluetooth, Matter | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | 9–12 mo | 9.4 |
| Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Max | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | 6 mo | 9.6 |
| Lockly Vision Elite | Wi-Fi, Fingerprint, Camera | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | Solar + Rechargeable | 9.3 |
| Eufy C210 | Wi-Fi, App | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | 6 mo | 9.1 |
Smart Lock Buying Guide (2025)
Before purchasing a smart lock, consider your door type, existing deadbolt configuration, and preferred ecosystem. While most 2025 models simplify setup, small details like neutral wire needs or Matter certification can affect compatibility with your home.
Connectivity Protocols
Modern locks connect over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or Thread. Wi-Fi offers the broadest compatibility but consumes more power. Matter and Thread deliver lower latency and better reliability for connected homes.
Installation Type
There are two types of smart locks: retrofit (August, Level) and full deadbolt replacements (Yale, Ultraloq, Lockly). Retrofit locks preserve your original hardware, making them renter-friendly. Replacements are better for homeowners seeking higher physical security and aesthetics.
Security Features
Look for locks with AES-128 encryption, auto-lock timers, and tamper detection. Fingerprint and keypad models provide redundancy in case your phone battery dies. For cloud-free privacy, choose models like Lockly Vision Elite or Eufy C210 that support local storage.
Battery & Power Management
Most smart locks last 6–12 months per charge. Solar or rechargeable USB-C options like Lockly’s reduce maintenance. Many also send low-battery alerts to your app, giving time for replacement before losing power.
Integration with Smart Homes
All the locks on this list work with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. If you’re building a cross-brand setup using Matter, prioritize Yale, Ultraloq, or Level for long-term support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if the battery dies?
Most locks, like Yale Assure and Ultraloq, allow temporary power via a 9V terminal on the exterior keypad so you can unlock and replace batteries safely.
Can smart locks be hacked?
All major brands use AES-128 or AES-256 encryption to prevent remote access attacks. Physical tampering remains a greater risk than hacking.
Do smart locks still allow physical keys?
Yes. Most models, such as Yale Assure, still include a traditional key cylinder for emergencies, though fully keyless designs like Level Bolt skip it for minimalism.
Are smart locks weatherproof?
Outdoor-rated locks like Ultraloq and Lockly Vision Elite carry IP65+ certifications, making them safe for rain and temperature extremes.
Which lock is best for renters?
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock and Level Bolt install internally without altering the door exterior—ideal for rental properties or apartments.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 smart lock market emphasizes choice and compatibility. For most homes, the Yale Assure Lock 2 offers the perfect mix of reliability and forward-looking technology with Matter support. Renters should consider the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock or Level Bolt for easy installation. If security extras matter most, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Max and Lockly Vision Elite deliver unmatched performance.
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