(keypad-style lock with no apps or hubs)
(Z-Wave smart lock, hub and extension hub)
Cost to install a smart lock varies greatly by region (and even by zip code).
Get free estimates from home audio/visual installers in your city.
The average cost of installing a smart lock is $300.
With the increase in smart devices on the market, most people agree that one of the key features in a smart home is the smart lock. Smart locks offer additional security for your home, without the disadvantages of traditional mechanical locks. They come in many types to accommodate your particular needs and home system, and they retrofit most doors. The variety of locks on the market also means there is a wide range of associated costs. Most homeowners pay around $300 for an installed smart lock and related accessories.
The biggest advantage of installing a smart lock in your home is convenience. Depending on the lock, they have many features that make securing and entering your home simpler, such as:
However, there are some drawbacks to the various locks as well. If the power or wi-fi goes out, the locks may malfunction. Wet or icy weather may make a biometric lock malfunction. Batteries wear out, and when that happens, the lock ceases to function without a key. Some systems need expensive additional components, such as hubs, to work properly. Any wi-fi-enabled system is hackable, and therefore a security threat.
Many people find that the disadvantages are overcomeable or manageable and that the convenience outweighs any potential concerns. Others feel more secure with locks that have backup keys.
Most smart locks are designed to be used on the main entrance to your home, such as the front door, but they have other uses as well. Some are strictly for interior use in place of interior privacy locks or to help make interior rooms more secure. Some can be used on mudroom, garage, and basement doors as well. For most people, the door that is used most frequently benefits the most from the addition of this kind of lock.
There are many different types of smart locks on the market. Each type functions differently, and some may require specific connections or accessories to work properly. Each one can give you the convenience and security you want but with varying features.
Type | Description | Average cost |
---|---|---|
Keypad | Easy to use Uses a pin or code May be programmed with multiple pins or codes Good for landlords and businesses | $100-$200 |
Wi-fi | Uses your home’s internet to work Can connect to other smart devices Often uses apps May use geofencing May use voice commands | $200-$300 |
Bluetooth | Uses Bluetooth in your phone to work Limited range May use geofencing May use voice commands More secure than wi-fi Longer battery life | $200-$300 |
RFID | Uses a key fob or card to activate Good for businesses May use geofencing | $200-$300 |
Biometric | Uses your fingerprint to operate Can be programmed with up to 100 prints Difficult to operate in cold weather, rain, or ice Long battery life | $250-$350 |
Z-Wave | Uses a hub Needs a specific range from the hub to work May require multiple hubs for large properties Can connect to other smart devices May use geofencing | $250-$350 |
Installation of a smart lock is fairly simple and usually takes less than 30 minutes. Some locks work with your existing deadbolt, only swapping out the visible escutcheons on the door and not the internal mechanism. Other locks require a complete swap out.
In most cases, the strike plate and deadbolt are unscrewed and the outer escutcheons removed. All pieces of the old lock are taken out. The new internal parts of the smart lock are mounted and screwed into place. Then, the new escutcheons are screwed over them. Set up of apps, Bluetooth, wi-fi, hub, or keypad pins takes only a few minutes more. Some homeowners may feel comfortable taking on this installation themselves, especially for locks which are designed for easy installation.
Smart locks are very easy to install, and many are designed for homeowner installation, meaning that you do not need a professional. However, if you feel more comfortable having someone else do the job, a handyman is capable of installing most smart locks. You would finish the setup to personalize the lock and connect it to the system yourself.
In rare cases, you may want to have a locksmith come out to set it up, but this is often unnecessary and can lead to higher installation fees. The average cost to install a smart lock is around $50. Added to the price of the lock and hub, this makes the total project cost around $300.
The brand you choose also impacts the functionality. Not every brand works with all systems, so if you want wi-fi, Z-Wave, or another connectivity-style system, you may be limited in what brands to choose from. Likewise, not all brands are compatible with all systems, with some working with Apple Home, but not Alexa, and others preferring Google. A few brands work with all.
Some brands of note include:
Brand | Description | Average costs |
---|---|---|
Kwikset | Bluetooth options Easy to use Simple models available No remote access | $200-$250 |
Schlage | Easy installation Mainly Bluetooth, but some have wi-fi Has voice control Has alarm features Wi-fi models work with most home systems | $200-$250 |
Yale | Easy installation Works with Nest Very reliable Keypad options | $250-$350 |
August | Easy installation Wi-fi, Bluetooth, and Z-Wave enabled Geofencing Works with most home systems | $275-$350 |
Array | Solar-powered options available Does not work with all home systems Wi-fi enabled | $300-$350 |
Some wi-fi and Bluetooth smart locks offer an app as part of the system, which allows you to control the lock from your phone. This may unlock the door when your phone is near or give you remote access. For locks with this system, there is no additional cost.
Some lock systems use a fob or remote control that lets you lock the door from a distance. This is often an added accessory and can increase the cost by $25 to $50.
One-touch or touch technology locks use a radio-frequency identification (RFID) system, but instead of needing a fob or card in your hand, you can simply have it nearby and touch the lock to open the door. One-touch locks typically cost the same as any RFID lock system, $200 to $300.
Average costs to change out a door lock are around $50.
Smart locks offer convenience to the user. They may provide remote entry, sync with home automation systems, or allow you access without a key.
No, some smart locks use biometrics or Bluetooth and do not use a hub.
Yes, wi-fi, Z-Wave, and other hub active systems can be hacked.
If you have a smart lock that is Alexa-compatible and has voice authorization enabled, then yes, Alexa can lock your doors.
Cost to install a smart lock varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.