A keyless smart lock eliminates the need for physical keys entirely, replacing them with smartphone apps, keypads, fingerprint sensors, or even hands-free auto-unlock. The best keyless smart locks combine security, convenience, and reliability — giving you one less thing to carry and one less thing to lose.
Best Keyless Smart Locks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Price | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Sense Pro | Best Hands-Free | ~$399 | UWB auto-unlock, Matter-over-Thread, no keyhole[reference:0][reference:1] |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Best Overall | ~$150–$240 | Modular design, multiple styles, wide smart home compatibility[reference:2] |
| Schlage Encode Plus | Best for Apple Home | ~$300 | Apple HomeKey, Grade 1 security, built-in Wi-Fi[reference:3][reference:4] |
| Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro | Best with Fingerprint | ~$190 | Fingerprint, keypad, app, Z-Wave support[reference:5][reference:6] |
| Level Lock Pro | Best Invisible Design | ~$350 | Looks like standard deadbolt, Matter/Thread, HomeKey[reference:7] |
| Wyze Lock Bolt V2 | Best Budget | ~$80 | Fingerprint, built-in Wi-Fi, under $100 |
Our Top Keyless Smart Lock Picks
1. Schlage Sense Pro — Best Hands-Free
The Schlage Sense Pro is the most advanced keyless smart lock available in 2026. It ditches physical keys entirely for ultra-wideband (UWB) hands-free unlocking — the lock senses your phone as you approach and unlocks automatically without you touching anything[reference:8][reference:9].
The Sense Pro is Schlage’s first smart lock to support Matter-over-Thread and its first without a physical keyhole[reference:10]. The front of the lock is sleek and discreet — a keypad only appears when you tap the lock[reference:11]. It works with Apple Home Key for both hands-free and tap-to-unlock access with an iPhone or Apple Watch[reference:12].
The lock is currently Apple-only for hands-free unlock, though support for Android devices is expected later[reference:13]. At $399, it is expensive, but for iPhone users who want the ultimate keyless experience, it’s unmatched[reference:14].
Best for: Apple users who want a truly hands-free keyless experience with no keyhole.
Consider: It only works with iPhones for hands-free unlock, and it’s the most expensive lock on this list.
2. Yale Assure Lock 2 — Best Overall
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is one of the most versatile keyless smart locks available. It features a modular design with swappable radio modules, allowing you to choose between Bluetooth, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, or Matter connectivity[reference:15].
The lock comes in multiple styles, including keyed, keyless, and touchscreen models. The physical button keypad works in all temperatures, and the all-metal construction is ANSI Grade 1 certified for high security[reference:16]. It works with Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings[reference:17].
Battery life is excellent, with the Bluetooth version lasting up to a year on 4 AA batteries[reference:18].
Best for: Homeowners who want a versatile, well-built keyless lock that works with any smart home ecosystem.
Consider: You may need to choose your connectivity module carefully based on your smart home setup.
3. Schlage Encode Plus — Best for Apple Home
The Schlage Encode Plus has been the smart lock benchmark since its release, and in 2026 it’s still the one most experts recommend[reference:19]. It features ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certification — the highest residential security rating available — with all-metal construction and a satisfying deadbolt click[reference:20].
Apple Home Key works flawlessly: tap your Apple Watch or iPhone, and the lock opens in under a second[reference:21]. Built-in Wi-Fi means no bridge or hub is required, and it supports Matter over Wi-Fi for integration with Home Assistant, Apple Home, Google Home, and Alexa simultaneously[reference:22].
Battery life is excellent — Schlage claims a year on 4 AA batteries, and real-world tests have shown 8+ months with 10–15 cycles per day[reference:23]. The touchscreen keypad can be occasionally unresponsive in freezing temperatures[reference:24], but the lock’s overall reliability is outstanding.
Best for: Apple users who want the highest security, Apple Home Key, and built-in Wi-Fi.
Consider: The touchscreen keypad may be less responsive in very cold weather, and it doesn’t natively support Google Assistant.
4. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro — Best with Fingerprint
The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is the best keyless smart lock if you want fingerprint access. It offers multiple unlocking methods including fingerprint, keypad, smartphone app, and physical key backup[reference:25]. The fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, making it ideal for households where multiple people need access.
The lock supports built-in Wi-Fi and works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung Bixby[reference:26]. It also has a Z-Wave version for smart home integration[reference:27]. The U-Bolt Pro is priced around $190, making it a solid mid-range option[reference:28].
The lock is easy to install, works with most standard doors, and includes auto-lock and voice assistant functionality[reference:29].
Best for: Households that want fast, reliable fingerprint access without breaking the bank.
Consider: The exterior keypad is larger than some premium alternatives.
5. Level Lock Pro — Best Invisible Design
The Level Lock Pro is the smart lock for anyone who wants keyless entry without the smart lock look. From the outside, it is nearly indistinguishable from a standard deadbolt, yet it packs Apple HomeKey, Matter over Thread, and multiple unlocking methods inside its compact form[reference:30][reference:31].
It is one of the first locks to fully embrace Matter and Thread, making it future-proof for the evolving smart home ecosystem[reference:32]. It supports Apple HomeKey, allowing you to unlock with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. The lock includes a physical key backup and can be controlled via the Level app[reference:33].
At $350, it is one of the most expensive smart locks on the market[reference:34]. However, for homeowners who want premium design and don’t need a keypad, it’s the best choice[reference:35].
Best for: Homeowners who want a premium, invisible keyless lock that doesn’t look like a smart lock.
Consider: It is expensive and lacks a built-in keypad — you’ll need your phone or Apple Watch to unlock.
6. Wyze Lock Bolt V2 — Best Budget Pick
The Wyze Lock Bolt V2 is the best keyless smart lock for budget-conscious shoppers. For around $80, it offers built-in Wi-Fi, a fingerprint reader, a tempered glass keypad, and a tamper alarm. It’s Amazon’s best-selling biometric security product with a 4.6-star rating.
The fingerprint scanner is AI-powered and learns from each touch for faster, more reliable unlocks. The lock supports up to 50 unique access codes, auto-lock, and tamper alerts. It uses 8 AA batteries for up to 8 months of battery life and includes a physical key backup. It supports both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.
The Wyze app is basic but functional, making setup and daily use straightforward. The exterior keypad is larger than some premium alternatives, but at this price point, it’s hard to beat.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want fingerprint access and built-in Wi-Fi under $100.
Consider: The exterior keypad is larger than premium options, and the app interface is basic.
How We Compare Keyless Smart Locks
- Unlocking methods (app, keypad, fingerprint, hands-free UWB)
- Security and physical build quality
- Smart home compatibility (Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa)
- Built-in Wi-Fi or bridge required
- Battery life
- App quality and features
- Installation type (replacement vs retrofit)
- Price and overall value
Keyless Unlocking Methods Explained
Hands-Free UWB Auto-Unlock
Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology allows a lock to sense your phone as you approach and unlock automatically without you touching anything[reference:36]. The Schlage Sense Pro is the leading example of this technology. It’s faster and more reliable than geofencing[reference:37].
Fingerprint
Fingerprint sensors offer the fastest physical unlock method — just press your finger and the lock opens. Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro and Wyze Lock Bolt V2 are strong examples. Fingerprint sensors are ideal for households where multiple people need access[reference:38].
Keypad
Keypad locks use a numerical PIN for entry. They are simple, reliable, and work in all weather conditions. The Yale Assure Lock 2 features a physical button keypad that works in every temperature[reference:39].
Smartphone App
Most keyless smart locks can be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing you to lock and unlock remotely, grant guest access, and monitor activity[reference:40].
Apple HomeKey vs Standard Smart Locks
Apple HomeKey allows you to unlock your door with a tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. It works without needing to open an app — just hold your device near the lock. The Schlage Encode Plus and Level Lock Pro both support Apple HomeKey[reference:41]. The Schlage Sense Pro adds hands-free unlock via UWB[reference:42].
Battery Life Considerations
Battery life varies significantly between keyless smart locks:
- Schlage Sense Pro: 4 AA batteries
- Yale Assure Lock 2: 4 AA batteries, up to 1 year[reference:43]
- Schlage Encode Plus: 4 AA batteries, 8–12 months[reference:44]
- Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro: AA batteries[reference:45]
- Level Lock Pro: CR2 battery[reference:46]
- Wyze Lock Bolt V2: 8 AA batteries, up to 8 months
Most locks provide low-battery alerts through their companion apps, giving you time to replace batteries before they die.
Keyless vs Keyed Smart Locks
Keyless smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys entirely, relying on apps, keypads, fingerprints, or hands-free technology. Keyed smart locks still include a physical keyway as a backup. Keyless locks offer the ultimate convenience but may not be suitable for everyone — especially if you prefer having a physical backup or if household members are less tech-savvy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are keyless smart locks secure?
Yes, when properly installed. Locks such as the Schlage Encode Plus and Yale Assure Lock 2 are ANSI Grade 1 certified — the highest residential security rating available[reference:47][reference:48]. All locks in this guide offer enterprise-grade encryption.
Can I still use a key with a keyless smart lock?
Some keyless locks include a physical key backup (Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, Wyze Lock Bolt V2). Others, such as the Schlage Sense Pro, have no keyhole at all[reference:49]. Choose based on whether you want a physical backup.
Do keyless smart locks work without Wi-Fi?
Most work via Bluetooth without Wi-Fi for local control. For remote access, you need Wi-Fi or a separate bridge.
What happens if the battery dies?
Most locks include low-battery alerts and physical key backup. The Schlage Sense Pro has a keypad that only appears when tapped, but no keyhole — you’ll need to keep your phone charged[reference:50].
Are keyless smart locks worth it?
For most people, yes. They eliminate the need to carry keys, allow remote access, and provide better control over who enters your home. The convenience and peace of mind are significant.
Final Thoughts
The Schlage Sense Pro is the ultimate hands-free keyless lock with UWB auto-unlock technology, but it’s expensive and Apple-only for now[reference:51]. The Yale Assure Lock 2 is the most versatile overall with modular connectivity and all-metal construction[reference:52]. Schlage Encode Plus offers the best Apple Home integration and high security[reference:53].
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro is the best fingerprint option, Level Lock Pro offers premium invisible design, and Wyze Lock Bolt V2 is the best budget pick under $100.
Choose based on your preferred unlocking method, smart home ecosystem, budget, and whether you want a physical key backup.