In an automated smart home, the best keypad door lock blends seamlessly with a home setup. Many work via Bluetooth, communicate with security systems, or can unlock through a WiFi-enabled app. A basic set of tools is all it takes to remove the old lockset and replace it with a high-tech, high-convenience model.
However, keep in mind some important considerations while shopping for the best keypad door lock. This
- BEST OVERALL: Kwikset SmartCode 955 Commercial-Grade Lever
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Zincker Vaulta Electronic Door Knob
- UPGRADE PICK: Sifely Keyless Entry Door Lock
- BEST DEADBOLT: Schlage Camelot Trim Keypad Deadbolt
- BEST SMART DEADBOLT: Nest x Yale Lock Tamper-Proof Smart Deadbolt
- BEST FOR ROOMMATES: Schlage Keypad Lever and Accent Lever With Flex Lock
- BEST FINGERPRINT READER: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro Series Smart Deadbolt
- BEST AUTOMATIC LOCKING: Schlage Keypad Lever and Elan Lever With Auto Lock
- MOST SECURE: Yale Assure Lock SL With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
How We Chose the Best Keypad Door Locks
We researched the most sought-after keypad door locks to replace traditional locks and discovered that the best keyless locks are determined by their ease of use, security grade, power source, connectivity, and other special features included by select brands.
While searching for the best keyless door locks on the market, the most popular options were ones that included a buttoned keypad for ease of use and visibility. While not as popular, those with touch screens include backlit designs and fingerprint recognition. No matter the design, each of the above locks comes with Grade 1 or 2 ratings for ample security and relies on swappable battery power sources (battery life typically lasting for 1 to 3 years).
Connectivity is also convenient with these keypad locks as select options are compatible with smart-home devices and systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Honeywell, Wink, and SmartThings as well as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. As for additional features included, these keyless locks come with privacy settings, door sensors, multiple locking/unlocking methods, and the ability to save over 95 personalized codes.
Our Top Picks
Not everyone needs the latest and greatest in a keypad door lock. However, so many options are available that potential buyers might struggle to choose the best keypad door lock. From locks paired with a smart app to an interior lockset to a deadbolt, the top picks are among the best keypad door locks on the market in a variety of categories.
Photo: amazon.com
For security and functionality, this keypad door lock by Kwikset ticks all the boxes. Designed for commercial use, it’s extremely durable for home use. Program this Grade 2 keypad to hold up to 30 specific codes—more than enough for everyone in the family to have their code, in addition to trusted family, friends, and other visitors. It also features three lock settings: auto lock, unlocked, and “disable passage mode,” which requires a key or code for entry. Choose from four different finishes to complement any outdoor decor.
However, those looking to leave their door unlocked with just the touch of a button must look elsewhere. The auto-lock/unlock settings toggle by flipping the knob on the interior side of the handle, which can be easy to forget when making quick trips in with grocery bags.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 2
- Power source: Swappable battery
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Buttons
Pros
- It can hold over 30 codes for homes or offices with many users
- It includes 3 lock settings: auto lock, unlocked, and “disable passage mode”
- Available in 4 finishes: black, bronze, chrome, and nickel
Cons
- Auto-lock function may be inconvenient for some users
Get the Kwikset keypad door lock at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
The Zincker Vaulta offers a series of push-button numbers around the outside of the door lock, allowing users to program and use a code for keyless entry. Plus, it’s quite a bargain. It can hold up to 50 codes total—plenty for family, delivery drivers, the dog walker, and more.
It has a traditional round door knob look but features a teardrop shape for better grip. It also has a silent mode that doesn’t beep, so it won’t disturb others in the house. It also has several modes, including passage mode (where the lock is disabled), a 5-second auto lock, and a backup power option utilizing a USB-C when the battery dies. Unfortunately, it’s not graded.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Not graded
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Buttons
Pros
- Holds a total of up to 50 sets of pass codes for providing access to those who need it
- Features silent mode, which prevents beeping and waking roommates on different schedules
- Has a USB-C power backup port that can be used if the battery dies
Cons
- It doesn’t have a security grade so it may not be as tough as other locks
Get the Zincker keypad door lock at Amazon or Zincker.
Photo: amazon.com
Flexibility meets security with this Sifely keyless entry door lock. The lock features smart technology with five different ways to lock and unlock a door: via the keypad, a fingerprint, a smartphone, a key fob, or a key. Users also can create keypad codes through the app to allow entry to visitors. An “eKey” can be sent to the email addresses of trusted family members and friends.
This keyless entry lock also can communicate with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to provide users with control of the lock. An additional option that’s sold separately, a remote control pairs with the manufacturer’s Wi-Fi gateway.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Ungraded model
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Touch screen
Pros
- It has 5 unlock methods, including keypad, fingerprint, smartphone, fob, and key
- Features eKey functionality to provide access to users from a WiFi-enabled device
- It works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control convenience
Cons
- No security grade was awarded, so it might not provide as much peace of mind as some other models
Get the Sifely keypad door lock at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
For those who already have a two-piece lockset but want to replace just the deadbolt, this keypad door lock by Schlage is worth checking out. This Grade 1 lock uses the same commercial-grade materials and design as several other Schlage models, and, like those, it can store up to 19 codes. It’s available in six finishes to complement an existing door handle.
Once the deadbolt accepts the PIN, users must turn the tumbler by hand to gain entry. While not a big deal for most people, others may find it inconvenient.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 1
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Buttons
Pros
- Commercial-grade construction to ensure that it’s reliable and durable for long-term use
- Stores up to 19 codes, providing access to whoever may need it
- It’s available in 6 colors, so it will match most home styles
Cons
- Users have to relock the tumbler by hand after unlocking it with a PIN
Get the Schlage Camelot keypad door lock at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Nest x Yale Lock’s tamperproof smart deadbolt is a direct replacement for the existing deadbolt lock already on most doors. This device is easy to install and features near-universal compatibility, allowing those who already have a deadbolt to upgrade it to modern tech. It links to the home’s Wi-Fi through the Nest Secure app, allowing users to control it from their phones to lock, unlock, and make access codes. It’s also compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa.
This smart lock features a touchpad-style keypad that won’t get greasy like a touch screen, and it doesn’t have buttons, so it won’t jam. It can store up to 20 different codes, allowing you to provide unique codes and track who comes and goes. This lock can also automatically lock when you leave and unlock when you return. It doesn’t include a deadbolt, so it’s not suitable for brand-new installations.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 2
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Touchpad
Pros
- Connects to the home’s Wi-Fi through the Nest Secure app, allowing users full access to its features from their phones
- Replaces an existing deadbolt door lock, providing nearly universal compatibility
- Automatically locks when you leave, preventing you from leaving the home unlocked
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a deadbolt, so users will have to already have one installed
Get the Nest x Yale Lock keypad door lock at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Living with a roommate takes a level of trust, but it doesn’t mean throwing common sense completely out of the window. With the Schlage keypad, housemates can protect their belongings without causing too much of an inconvenience—to themselves or others.
Schlage’s keypad door lock is a high-quality Grade 2 lock at a relatively inexpensive price. The lock includes two preset codes, but it can store up to 19 individual PINs. This smart door lock allows users to change their lock settings with ease. Flipping the tumbler on the interior side of the door toggles it between auto lock (for safety) and unlocked mode (for convenience). It’s built with commercial-grade materials and is available in seven finishes.
This smart lock boasts a reversible handle, making it work with both right- and left-hand-opening doors. It may tend to wear down batteries, so be sure to keep a fresh set on hand. Also, this smart lock is not compatible with Schlage LiNK Z-Wave.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 2
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Buttons
Pros
- Auto-lock and unlock modes are included for convenience and security
- Commercial-grade construction ensures that it’s tough, reliable, and can take the rigors of entry door use
- It’s available in 7 different finishes to fit any home style
Cons
- It’s not compatible with Schlage LiNK Z-Wave
Get the Schlage Accent lever keypad door lock at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
A lot of fingerprint locks are relatively low quality, but the Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro has a lot to offer folks shopping for a fingerprint reader. This lock replaces a deadbolt lock and features a fingerprint reader directly in the middle of the keypad. Users can walk up, place their finger on the lockset, and enter the home. It can store up to 120 fingerprints, ensuring everyone who needs to gain keyless access can.
This deadbolt replacement lock has other features as well. It has a 10-digit button pad as well as key access, app control, and auto unlock that activates as you approach. There is also an anti-peep feature that allows the user to punch in extra buttons before or after their actual code to prevent anyone from memorizing it. It’s also American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Grade 1, ensuring that it’s safe and secure. The biggest complaint is that it doesn’t come with its own deadbolt.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 1
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Buttons
Pros
- Features a fingerprint sensor that can read up to 120 fingerprints
- Has several different modes including fingerprint, code, key, app control, and auto lock
- It’s an ANSI Grade 1 lock so it’s safe and secure
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a deadbolt, so users will need one installed first
Get the Ultraloq keypad door lock at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Forgetful users who sometimes come home to an unlocked door will appreciate the auto-lock feature on this keypad door lock by Schlage. After entering the code, the door lock automatically relocks after 5 seconds—optimal for busy users and even older children who might forget to lock the door behind them. Program up to 19 codes in this lock.
Users who frequently come and go might find this door lock frustrating since the auto-lock feature doesn’t deactivate. It’s ideal for home security but may be a pain when bringing in groceries or running back and forth to the garage.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 2
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Buttons
Pros
- Auto-lock and relock features ensure the home is safe and secure
- Saves up to 19 codes for multiple users, making it suitable for large families or small businesses
- It comes in 7 finishes to match most homes’ decorating styles
Cons
- Auto-lock feature cannot be deactivated
Get the Schlage Elan lever keypad door lock at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
This Yale Assure lock is designed to be one of the best smart locks on the market as it works seamlessly with most smart-home systems, including Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Siri, and Amazon’s Alexa (although purchasing a hub to use Alexa is necessary). Once the keyless Yale lock replaces an existing deadbolt and the hub is in place, an app allows you to use Alexa or a smartphone to lock, unlock, and check the front door. The lock includes a door sensor that sets alerts via phone if the door opens or closes.
Lock and unlock the door with a phone or enter a PIN code (it can store up to 250 codes) via the keypad. This Yale model also has a privacy setting that temporarily blocks other codes, and it comes with two physical keys to use as backups.
Product Specs
- Security grade: Grade 2
- Power source: Swappable batteries
- Touch screen vs. buttons: Touch screen
Pros
- It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and Siri
- Replaces an existing front door deadbolt, upgrading its tech while offering the same security
- Unlocks with pin, smartphone, and backup keys for multiple convenient entry methods
Cons
- A hub is required to connect it with Amazon Alexa
Get the Yale keypad door lock at Amazon or Lowe’s.
What to Consider When Choosing a Keypad Door Lock
Before choosing the best keypad door lock for home security, consider several important points. Keep these important considerations in mind while hunting for a door lock, from touch-screen interface to power supply.
Security Grade
While all keypad door locks provide security, how much security they offer varies among the different grades. In 1983, the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) began developing lock ratings through the ANSI.
The ANSI/BHMA ratings test the locks against prying, blunt force, and other common methods by which a would-be burglar might attempt to breach a home. The three main grades are:
- ANSI Grade 1: Typical in a commercial setting, homeowners can also use them. They are the strongest, most secure, and most durable locks on the market.
- ANSI Grade 2: These locks are more typical in residential settings. While they’re strong and durable, they’re not as durable as Grade 1 locks.
- ANSI Grade 3: These locks meet the lowest acceptable standards, and their rating makes them suitable only for residential applications.
Not all locks have ANSI/BHMA certification. If security is a top priority, consider purchasing an ANSI-grade lock.
Touch Screen vs. Buttons
One of the biggest decisions when choosing the best keypad door lock is between a touch-screen interface or buttons. Each style has benefits.
- Touchscreen keypad locks are smooth and sleek. Typically, they light up when touched, providing a view of the digits to enter the combination. They can be difficult to see in direct sunlight but are extremely visible at night.
- Button keypad locks provide tactile feedback that lets users know they have successfully entered the code. They’re easy to see in daylight but can be challenging to use at night without a backlight.
Power Source
Unless it’s in a commercial setting, a keypad door lock doesn’t usually have a constant hardwired power source. Choosing between rechargeable or swappable batteries is another consideration.
- Rechargeable batteries pop out of the back of the unit and plug into a charger. Once fully charged, simply place them back in the lock. The downside is that charging can take time, and if someone wants to enter the home while the battery is charging, they must use a key to gain access.
- Swappable batteries are ideal for quick changes and long battery life. Just as with the rechargeable option, simply remove them from the back of the lock for easy replacement. It’s a much faster process, but it requires a supply of fresh batteries.
Smart Technology
Many of the best keypad door locks boast smart-home capabilities and Wi-Fi technology. Coupled with a downloadable app, these smart locks provide access from a mobile device, tablet, or computer. They operate on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Some of these locks tie in with other types of smart-home technology, like a digital voice assistant. For example, after programming the appropriate features, users can lock and unlock the back, side, and front doors of their home with a voice command.
Connectivity
Many of the best keypad door locks also provide convenience through connectivity. Methods for controlling a keypad door lock through a connected device include:
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth-enabled devices connect to a smartphone. If you’re within connection range, which varies depending on the size of your home and its layout, Bluetooth devices can be toggled between locking and unlocking. They also can sense an approach and automatically unlock the front door.
- Wi-Fi: WiFi-enabled devices use a home’s internet service to electronically control the door lock. These smart locks can function with a digital voice assistant, If-This-Then-That (IFTTT) devices, and can also tie in with security systems.
- Biometric: Devices with biometric features typically use a fingerprint to provide access. Once programmed, simply place a finger on the touchpad, and the device will automatically lock or unlock.
- Radio frequency identification (RFID): RFID devices use small electronic keycards, or tiles, to access the lock. They are similar to electronic badge smart locks in commercial buildings. Simply raise the RFID tile or keycard to the lock, and the lock will release when it detects the proper key.
Keep in mind that all these systems include traditional keys as well, so manual operation is always an option.
Protection Mechanisms
Just like a standard door lock, keypad door locks can be tampered with by would-be thieves. Some of these devices provide extra features to enhance their security, such as a built-in alarm that activates after several failed entry-code attempts or one with an automatic shutdown function that disables the keypad after a preset number of failed attempts.
Automatic locking, another helpful feature, blends convenience with security. Many keypad door locks lock if they detect that someone has left home (typically via Bluetooth), or they automatically relock after entry.
Access Logs and Rekeying
Knowing who entered the home or programming an additional digital key to a keypad door lock is a convenient feature that some of the best smart locks offer. By assigning individual key codes to everyone who enters a home, these locks add an extra layer of security.
Access logs and digital rekeying could be valuable in these situations:
- giving a dog sitter access,
- allowing a repair or delivery person into a home, or
- ensuring children can enter the home after school.
Most of the keypad door locks in this guide allow users to add, send, and delete digital keys via their accompanying apps.
Mechanical Backup Lock
Electronic door locks include built-in mechanical backups in case users forget the code or the lock battery dies. Typically, these locksets feature traditional locking key tumblers in the handle like a mechanical lock. Others have hidden tumblers tucked away behind plastic shrouds and plates. Inserting the included key into this tumbler unlocks the door, providing access regardless of whether the batteries have a full charge.
FAQs
If you still have some questions about the best keypad door locks, this section is for you. It’s a collection of some of the most frequently asked questions about keypad door locks, so you may be able to find an answer to your question here.
Q. What are ANSI/BHMA security ratings?
The three ANSI/BHMA lock grades are:
- Grade 1: The toughest and most durable, intended primarily for commercial settings.
- Grade 2: The second toughest and most durable, usually used in residential settings.
- Grade 3: The lowest standard acceptable by ANSI/BHMA, intended only for residential settings.
Even if a lock has a Grade 3 rating, it’s no indication that it’s a low-quality lock. For a lock to receive an ANSI/BHMA grade of any sort, it must pass rigorous testing.
Q. How do smart locks connect to other devices?
Many smart locks use downloadable apps to communicate with other devices. They link to your Wi-Fi, allowing you to include them in IFTTT programs, themes, and routines.
Q. Can my smart lock be hacked?
Hacking is a definite concern for any smart device, but it’s often the result of a low-quality password. Protect your home by using a unique, challenging password that would be difficult for a hacker to guess.
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