Best Smart Lock For Airbnb: The Ultimate Guide

Running your Airbnb property can be challenging even during busy periods, and arranging key collection and drop-offs can usually be well managed. Smart locks can make the whole experience easier by working as a glitch-free option for your rental.

Smart lock selection

What We Use At Home

Schlage Century

Their known for combining the best security features in to one amazing smart lock.  

schalge century

Best Budget Option

Kwikset Kevo

Color coded wires make it easy to install, while the hub allows you to control entry remotely. 

Kwikset Kevo

Quietest Smart Lock Option

Yale Assure SL

Waking up guests isn’t an option, which is where this lock performed excellently.

yale assure sl

The Buyers Guide To Smart Locks For AirBnB

You can now manage all of your guests entries via your smartphone by supplying a new code, and to lock or unlock your door.

The problem is there are so many different keyless options out there. 

So how do you make the right decision?

What should you look out for? And what is the best smart lock?

Before purchasing the best smart door locks, there are a few things you should be thinking about.  It will save buyers regret and ensure you get the best smart lock for you.

Price

Paying through the roof for a smart lock isn't always the best option. You need to have a good think about how you need your smart lock to work.

The Connection

You have various options when it comes to connecting your lock. Bluetooth offered lower security, but combined with WiFi, it’s more secure.

The App

Each Smart lock uses a different system for the smartphone app to operate its keyless function. Find a lock that integrates with other software.

Installation

Not everyone is a DIY guru, and that’s alright. Try and find a lock that’s easy to install and integrates the existing deadbolt. It will save you money.

Battery

Most smart locks run off batteries, but it does bring some drawbacks. If the batteries die, you’ll get locked out unless it comes with a key option.

Security Grade

Security is crucial, whether it’s for your home or your Airbnb guests. Grade 1 offers you the highest protection and will give you peace of mind.

And finally, the guarantee:

In my eyes, anything electrical needs to come with some sort off warranty. It’s perfect if anything goes wrong, at least you know you’re covered.

One thing to watch out for is what kind of guarantee they offer, is it mechanical, electrical, or both.

The Best Smart Locks For AirBnB

Still struggling?

Don’t worry; it’s perfectly normal. there are so many dud products out there, finding yourself a golden smart lock is very difficult.

But, that’s why we’re here, it’s our job to provide you with unbiased information about each product. Let us help you find the best smart lock for Airbnb:

 Schalage CenturyKwikset KevoYale Assure SLAugustHomeYale Touchscreen
MRSP$168.78$133.41$209$170$199
InstallationEasyEasyMediumEasyEasy
ConnectionWi-FiBluetooth1Wi-Fi, BluetoothWi-FiWi-Fi, Bluetooth
Battery Life1 to 2-Years1-Months8 to 12-Weeks6 to 9-Months120-days
AppStainless SteelBPA-free plastic,
Silicone outer layer
BPA-free
plastic
BPA-free
plastic
Stainless Steel
Security GradeGarde 1Grade 2Grade 2N/AGrade 2
WarrantyLifetime Limted/
1-Year Electronic
1-Year
Electrical
Lifetime Limted/
1-Year Electronic
1-YearLifetime Limted/
1-Year Electronic
BuyFind Best PriceFind Best PriceFind Best PriceFind Best PriceFind Best Price

#1 – Schlage Connect Century

WHAT WE USE

schalge century

Schlage touch screen deadbolt is available in six different colors, including satin nickel and aged bronze.

The smart lock is battery operated and can fit most standard doors.

It also features the best security with an ANSI grade 1 rating; you can rest assured your Airbnb rental is safe.

Its smart lock is fully functional with your Alexa device, but it does require a control hub that is sold separately.

It also gives you the option of becoming keyless by using Z-wave technology.

Schlage is known for combining all the best security features into one lock and it’s also the lock I use on my own house!

The smart lock also comes with a built-in alarm system, which has three alert modes activity, tamper, and forced entry.

The touch screen is fingerprint-resistant, so people won’t be able to figure out your code. It takes less than 1-hour install and comes with a lifetime limited warranty on the mechanics and one-year for electrics.

Key Features

  • Keyless feature
  • Works with Schlage Z-wave connect technology
  • Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen keypad for security
  • Built-in alarm system
  • Six colors and Century or Camelot to choose from
  • Lifetime limited warranty/1-year electronic warranty

What Other People Say

One customer has not had to change the access code for over six years, and there’s still no signs of wear around the numbers.

Another person had two locks on different properties; both locks worked flawlessly, whether it’s via remote lock or locally.

A few people had trouble with the batteries in areas of high humidity, but one person had a solution by drilling holes in the casing. People were also complaining about the batteries dying quickly, but this seems to be down to human error.

If the whole isn’t lined up, it switches to high power mode to ensure the lock closes. The easy solution is to dig the hole out a bit more.

Final Verdict

Overall this is one of the best smart locks out on the market. Its security system is second to none. It was also effortless to install, which is always a nice feature.

One thing to check out is the depth of the hole. It will save the smart lock going into high power mode.

 

What We Liked

  • Grade 1 security
  • Great warranty
  • Easy install

What We Didn’t Like

  • Bad in areas of humidity
  • High power mode kills the battery

#2 – Kwikset Kevo 2nd Gen

The Kwikset Kevo is a lot easier to install than its previous model. 

All the hardware is color-coded, so you know exactly which bit’s go where.

And to make it easier, the smartphone app has an interactive step by step guide you can follow.

The whole unit can be installed using a screwdriver, so you don’t have to be a DIY wizard.

Unlike the previous model, the 2nd Gen smart lock has a sleek satin nickel design, which you can sync with Alexa for voice commands (requires a Kevo Plus hub).

The 3rd Gen Kevo app provides you with a faster connection than previous versions. 

They also provide you with free E keys, which you can manage online via your smartphone. 

Via the app, you keep control over who has access to your house. You can gain access to the house using your smartphone, key fob, or traditional keys, the choice is yours.

Key Features

  • Free E keys
  • Remote lock Access
  • Compatible with iPhone 4s or Android 5.0 and higher
  • Alexa voice command compatible
  • Manage guest entry
  • Works with a traditional key, fob or SmartKey

What Other People Say

It was so much better than the Gen 1 version. Their household consisted of two iPhones and two Androids, and the lock worked perfectly on all phones, it even worked with the android ware so he could open the door with his wrist.

It opened the first time around 80% of the time. The other 20% needed two touches.

It wasn’t all roses, a lot of people seemed to have issues with unlocking the door, it took the multiple attempts, and in the end had to open the app to unlock the door. There was also a lot disappointment with how long the battery lasted, it didn’t cut it.

Final Verdict

Overall, this product doesn’t work the way it should. The idea behind it is excellent; it’s just a shame about the execution.

If the battery issue is fixed and its unreliability at unlocking, then it would be a lovely bit of kit. At least the security was upgraded against forced entries.

What We Liked

  • Works with a key fob
  • Sleek design
  • Easy to install

What We Didn’t Like

  • Small problem with pairing
  • Inconvenient to change batteries
  • Poor battery life

#3 – Yale Assure SL

Yale is the #1 smart lock brand and claims to be the slimmest on the market. 

The smart lock is BHMA grade 2 certified for extra security, which will give your peace of mind while you’re away from home.

Their smart lock is fully motorized and again performs quieter than most other brands, which is a running trait for Yale smart locks.

Their smart lock is compatible with most Z-wave smart home systems, including Samsung SmartThings, wink, and more.

Unlock your front door with up to 250 unique codes. All the codes are fully manageable via the app.

You can track people coming and going, and features a complete lockout mode for privacy.

Speak to Alexa to find out the door locking status (requires a hub and Amazon device). The Yale smart lock also features a 9V backup battery to prevent lockout due to dead batteries.

The smart lock can be set to lock automatically, and It also comes in Four different styles with three different color options.

Key Features

  • Three colors and four different styles to choose from
  • Compatible with Z-wave system
  • Auto-lock feature
  • 250 unique codes to share with friends and family
  • Emergency 9V battery
  • Water-resistant gasket

What Other People Say

The unit was made to look very attractive, but it was a shame you couldn’t set a single-use code for devilries.

It also worked great with Siri, but it did come with a slight delay when locking the door.

 

They also praised the smart lock for being easy to install and connect to your home hub. Again it wasn’t all roses for the Yale smart lock. The 9V battery that’s supposed to prevent you from being locked out didn’t work.

One person had a fault with the lock. The customer service told him to send it back and wait for a replacement. Which meant they would be no lock on his front door.

Final Verdict

The lock system worked well, although you need to check on the alignment. It’s a shame they haven’t solved their battery issue with their new smart lock.

The touchscreen deadbolt system works well, but the numbers seemed to fade after repeated use.

 

What We Liked

  • 9V battery for emergency
  • Compact design
  • Three color options

What We Didn’t Like

  • Battery issues not fixed
  • Delay with Siri
  • Doesn’t tolerate miss alignments

#4 – August Home ASL-02

Looking for your keys is a thing of the past with August Home and their keyless entry smart lock.

You can create virtual keys for your Airbnb guest, or cleaners, this is done simply from your smartphone; it only takes a couple of minutes.

By using the app, which is compatible with ios or android phone, you can keep track of anyone entering the house.

They also feature an auto-lock/unlock feature, so you don’t have to reach for your keys anymore.

You have the option to turn this off via the app if it isn’t for you. 

You can even control the lock with Siri or via Alexa (this option does require a hub and an Alexa device). This is a great touch for people looking for a hands-free option.

The installation is easy and requires no wiring. You’ll only have to replace a few minor parts; the existing deadbolt stays the same.

When the batteries need replacing, you’ll get notified via the mobile app. The device uses low energy Bluetooth or LEB. One thing to note is that the warranty is only valid for customers in the US or Canada.

Key Features

  • Compatible with ios or android
  • Create Ekeys for your guests
  • Auto-lock/unlock function
  • 24/7 activity log for tracking
  • Unlocks with a traditional key
  • Voice control options

What Other People Say

One review stated it installed within 15 minutes and reduced paranoia about locking the door. While other people experienced problems with the auto-lock feature, it was not the case for him.

Another customer said, “the device wasn’t terrible, but it over-promised and under-delivered.”

Another review claimed it had some interference during bad weather, but this could have been a faulty product. Others praised the AA batteries for lasting well over two months before they needed replacing, and the app warned them in plenty of time.

Final Verdict

Overall not a bad device; the auto-lock/unlock worked well.

One problem is it runs solely on Bluetooth, which isn’t the safest, and it means your device needs to be running Bluetooth consistently.

The previous reviews are correct; the device other promises and under-deliverers.

 

What We Liked

  • Auto unlock
  • Easy to install
  • Voice control

What We Didn’t Like

  • Slow to update status
  • Bluetooth
  • Unreliable

#5 – Yale Touchscreen Deadbolt

The Yale Touchscreen smart lock in satin nickel is perfect a perfect smart lock for Airbnb. 

The touchscreen deadbolt takes a few minutes to install, even if you have no previous experience.

It requires no hard wiring or extra screws and is made more comfortable with the voice-assisted setup (available in 3 languages).

By using the Z-wave automation app, you can remotely lock or unlock the door.

Create up to 250 unique codes to share with friends, family, or guests 25 of the user codes can be control free.

The touchscreen keypad has backlit numbers for late entries.

And on the back of the smart lock, it features a one-touch locking system to rid you of the need for keys. 

Yale uses a motorized deadbolt, which is tapered to deal with misaligned doors.

For emergencies, the smart lock comes with two keys; if the guest codes don’t work or the battery dies, you can still enter the house.

Key Features

  • Compatible with most Z-wave automation apps
  • Create up to 250 user codes
  • Keyless entry
  • Voice-guided installation with three languages
  • Privacy mode with complete lockout
  • Tapered deadbolt

What Other People Say

After a month of using the product, they liked it, the voice programming prompts worked well and made it very easy to install.

The build quality looked reliable to all customers but thought it could have been better if it included a temporary code setting for one time entries.

 

There was one review that said it was a nice touch that the button speaker was attached to the outside. It meant it didn’t wake guests up during the night.

Another review said it was a bonus that the inside cylinder could be changed; if the keys get lost, you won’t have to buy a complete unit.

Final Verdict

The smart lock itself worked well, but there was a problem with the batteries not lasting as long as they should.

The deadbolt seems to die after the 14-month warranty. Other than that, it worked perfectly. It appears to be a manufacturing error.

 

What We Liked

  • No hard wiring required
  • Z-wave compatible
  • Changeable cylinder

What We Didn’t Like

  • Low battery life
  • Poor customer service
  • Doesn’t track lock status

But This Is The Best Smart Lock For Airbnb Hosts

The best smart door lock product in our group review is the Schlage Connect. It easily outperformed all other units.

Out of the five reviews, it’s the only one offering a grade 1 security deadbolt system.

The built-in alarm system worked excellently and warned if you if anyone is trying to break in.

It was straightforward to install (not the easiest, but anyone can follow the instructions) even if your mind is technology orientated.

schalge century

It was also great to see fingerprints didn’t affect the security at all after thousands of uses; you still cannot tell which numbers have been pressed.

Plus it’s what we are using personally – what more do you want?

Frequently Asked Questions

People always have questions, and sometimes it’s hard to find the answer to your problems.

Here are a few questions we often get asked:

They work Like traditional locks and usually integrate with the existing deadbolt for easier installation. They work by replacing a physical key with a smart Ekey and a touchscreen keypad. Once the smart lock picks up the signal, it opens the door for the Airbnb Guest.
There have been cases where a smart lock can be hacked, but most of the time, this is down to human error rather than the smart locks themselves. But, Bluetooth devices do tend to be less secure. In 2016 a hacker convention tested 16 Bluetooth smart locks; 75 % of them failed. To add an extra layer of defense find one with WiFi assistance.
Yes, all smart locks need to receive power, but that doesn’t mean they need to be hooked up to the mains. Most of them use batteries allowing for quicker and easier installation. One thing to note is if the batteries die, you’re guest will have no access to your Airbnb rental.
August smart lock for Airbnb can work with the company to make your life easier. Once the guest books a room with you, they’ll be sent an email to download the app. Once they sink the app with their Airbnb account, guests will be able to unlock the door with their smartphone. When the rental period is over, technology will play its part and revoke the clients’ access.
It might come down to personal preference, but for us, the Schlage Camelot is allowing the most reliable keyless entry system. It also uses a touchscreen keypad for code access if your phone has ran out of battery. It also allows you to keep track of any entering the building.
Nowadays, a smart lock working with Alexa isn’t uncommon at all; in fact, all the products above feature voice command options. But, it comes at a higher price, unless you already have a hub and an Alexa device. Technology is advancing, and so is the need for force automation devices
Follow these steps so you can connect your smart lock:
  • Go to “settings” which is located under your profile photo.
  • Feel free to pick any listing you wish to integrate with your lock and click the “Settings” button beside it.
  • In the “Smart Lock” drop-down menu, choose the August lock you decided on so you can link it to your listing

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