Hosting out-of-town family and friends is often a treat, but it can present something of a logistical nightmare. Unpredictable flight delays and inflexible work schedules can mean your guests are stuck outside on your porch, waiting for you to get home. Or, they show up in the middle of the night and you’re forced to get out of bed. You can hide a key under your mat, which is a great way to let your family, friends, and thieves into your house. At this point, even raccoons know keys are left under mats.
There are plenty of smart home fixes that allow you to access any room of your house, but there’s an even simpler and cheaper old school fix. Getting a keypad lock makes it a breeze to let your guests in, and you don’t have to worry about making multiple copies of keys. Even if you’re not expecting guests, an electronic door lock is a great way to avoid worrying about keys. It may seem like a small thing, but anyone who has ever locked themselves out can tell you small things can be big headaches.
The main thing you’ll want to decide is how smart you want your lock to be. Some of the options below feature app connectivity and fingerprint sensors, and others are simply programmable keypads. Most of these locks allow you to program multiple codes, which makes it easy to create temporary codes for short-term guests. Also, they all come with low battery warnings and emergency backup options.
1. Schlage Camelot Keypad Deadbolt
This simple keypad deadbolt comes in a variety of finishes to fit your style, and the backlit numbers make it easy to come and go at night. Both Schlage locks on this list are manual; once the code is entered, the knob must be turned to open the door. The advantage is that the door won’t automatically lock every time you close the door, but it does make for more effort getting in when it is locked.
Pros: Can program and delete up to 19 access codes, which is perfect for letting in guests or contractors.
Cons: Backup key is difficult to use.
2. Kwikset 909 SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt
This option has a compact shape, making it easy to install in a variety of doors. Like many options on this list, this unit is a locking deadbolt, rather than a doorknob. There are three finishes available: Venetian bronze, polished brass, and satin nickel. The keys are backlit, and the door can be locked with the push of one button.
Pros: Available in several finishes. Features an auto-lock setting. Backlit keys. Available with matching door handles.
Cons: Five shared numerical buttons, rather than 10 individual buttons, which some may not like.
3. Tacklife Electronic Deadbolt Door Lock
Tacklife’s electronic deadbolt has a sleek, brushed satin-nickel finish, so it will add a sophisticated look to any door. You can customize up to six different codes, between four and 10 digits. The buttons are backlit and light up when pressed, making it easy to use at night.
Pros: Keyed entry for backup, auto-lock feature. Backlit keys for use at night.
Cons: Not as many programmable codes as some options.
4. TurboLock Keyless Electronic Keypad Entry Door
This electronic door lock features 12 buttons, consisting of 0-9 numeral buttons and * and # buttons. The buttons are featured directly on the doorknob, making it a convenient option for doorways that don’t have deadbolts. The door automatically locks for safety. While there is no key backup, you can use the battery-pack back up to unlock the door.
Pros: Buttons are directly on the doorknob, making it a good option for narrower doors or those without deadbolts. Easy to install on left or right hinged doors. Multiple codes can be programmed.
Cons: Automatic locking can be inconvenient for times when you want to leave the door closed but unlocked.
5. SoHoMiLL Electronic Door Knob
This spring-latch lock is an easy option; it’s smaller than the Schlage locks, which is good for doors with limited space between the frame and knob. It locks automatically, and you can program up to eight codes for guests. There is no backup key, but it comes with a backup battery jumper in case the battery dies.
Pros: Numbers are printed on the inside of the buttons, so they won’t wear out with use. Plus, the buttons light up, making them easy to see at night.
Cons: It locks automatically after closing, which can be a hassle for times when you’re in and out.
6. Lockly Bluetooth Keyless Entry Smart Door Lock
This lock is unique in that it utilizes a fingerprint sensor to unlock the door. That makes it easier to open the door without worrying about remembering codes. The unit can store up to 99 different fingerprints. In addition to the fingerprint sensor, there’s a pin and a keyhole. Through the app you can grant one-time access or short term access for guests.
Pros: Multiple entry options, including fingerprints, codes, or a key. App allows you to grant temporary access.
Cons: Somewhat expensive.
7. Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt
This touchscreen keypad deadbolt allows you to lock or unlock remotely using your smartphone. Plus, it has an alarm setting that notifies you when someone is at the door. You can also program temporary codes for visitors.
Pros: Wireless connectivity, alarm setting, a matte touchscreen pad reduces fingerprint smudging.
Cons: Despite the wireless connectivity, there is no easy way to remotely program new codes.
8. Bravex Keyless Entry Keypad
A dead battery is a consideration with most keyless doors, but not this one. It’s entirely mechanical, meaning that there are no electronic parts that can fail. That also means that the door does not lock automatically. Besides the keypad, you can use a key to unlock the door.
Pros: Entirely mechanical, so there are no batteries to worry about. Can be used with a key.
Cons: Combination can be used in any order, meaning it’s somewhat less secure.