A smart lock is a smart home device that relies on a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. Unlike traditional door locks that require a physical key, there are several ways to open smart locks. These include:

• Touch

• Keypads

• Mobile apps

• Key cards

• Voice

• Geofencing (smart lock detects when you cross a virtual boundary around your home or neighborhood)

• Traditional keys

Knowing the different types of smart locks can ensure you select the right smart lock for your needs. Here's a closer look at the most common smart locks available today.

Keypad Smart Locks

To gain entrance with a smart keypad lock, you must enter a key code using the numeric keypad. Styles of keypads vary from physical buttons to touchscreens, and they often come in a set that includes a deadbolt with a handle or a deadbolt with a lever and knob. Level Keypad has a wireless, weatherproof, LED-backlit design giving you the freedom to discreetly install anywhere near your lock.

Key-Card-Enabled Smart Locks

Similar to hotel keys, you can simply unlock key-card-enabled smart locks by tapping a key card to let yourself in. Some key-card-enabled locks, like Level Lock - Touch Edition, give you the ability to touch the lock when you approach your door, as well as use geofencing to detect when you’re near and automatically unlock the door.

Biometric Smart Locks

You must use a fingerprint to unlock biometric smart locks. This type of smart lock records and stores your fingerprint using pre-saved unique identifying values, making it possible for you to allow other people to unlock the door with their fingerprints.

Keyless and Wireless Smart Locks

A Bluetooth connection is necessary for locking and unlocking keyless and wireless smart locks like Level Lock. These smart locks come with an app or can connect to smart home systems such as Apple HomeKit, making it possible to control your lock with voice or scheduled routines.

If you're asking yourself which smart lock you should buy, it's time to consider a few important smart lock features.

Remote Access

Want the ability to control your smart lock when you’re away from home? Ensure the smart lock you buy allows you to give shared guest access to people like your housekeeper or dog walker.

Smart Home Compatibility

If you currently have other smart home devices, a smart lock may be a good addition. Once your devices are connected, you can perform several tasks like setting up some smart locks to open with a voice command or scheduling recurring access for those who come and go and set times.

Auto-Lock and Unlock

Is remembering to lock the smart lock a concern for you? Get one with auto-lock and unlock features that you can enable to unlock the smart lock when you approach the door and lock within a specific time after you leave.

Mobile Device Compatibility

You may want to use your smartphone to control, monitor, or access your lock. Before you buy, be sure that the smart lock is compatible with your device.

Multiple Access Options

As mentioned above, some smart locks allow access in multiple ways. If you prefer to have more than one way to unlock your smart lock, buy one with various access options - like Level Lock - Touch Edition, which allows you to access your home by touch, phone, key cards, voice, or even a physical key.

Smart Lock Prices

Although some price differences come down to manufacturer and product quality, many also relate to the features you choose. Smart lock prices range from about $100 for a basic keypad up to almost $600 for a keyless deadbolt that you can connect to your smart home system and control from anywhere.

If you're ready to make an upgrade, you may be wondering where to buy smart locks. You can purchase Level smart locks online at major retailers, or here on level.co. To learn more about Level locks and our other smart home security products, browse our web store today.

Find us on Instagram @levelhome, Twitter @levelhomeinc, or Facebook @levelhomeinc, and sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear about product news, promotions, partnerships, and more.