Best Smart Locks for California Homes 2026 — Installer-Trusted Picks

What I look for

Smart locks have hit mass-market. Most homeowners can install one in 30 minutes. Here are the 8 I'd actually trust on a paying client's door.

The picks

1. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt

Best overall. Apple Home Key + Google + Alexa.

2. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Gen

Best retrofit. Mounts over existing deadbolt.

3. Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch Wi-Fi

Best Yale. Touch-to-open, 1.5-inch profile.

4. Aqara Smart Lock U200

Premium new entry. Matter + HomeKit + face recognition.

5. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt

Mid-range Schlage. Drop-in install.

6. Kwikset Halo Touch Smart Lock

Best fingerprint lock. Touch-to-open.

7. Level Lock Plus Smart Lock

Premium minimalist. Looks like a regular deadbolt.

8. eufy Security E330 Smart Lock

Best video smart lock. Built-in camera.

Frequently asked questions

Can I install a smart lock myself?

Yes — most replace a standard deadbolt in 20-30 minutes. Schlage Encode and Yale Assure are easiest.

Do smart locks work without WiFi?

Bluetooth-only works without WiFi (limited range). WiFi models need a connection for remote unlock.

Best smart lock for Apple HomeKit 2026?

Schlage Encode Plus (HomeKey support) or Aqara U200 (Matter + HomeKit).