The advantages of a Z-Wave smart lock compensate for the limits of a normal lock. Since they can be used anywhere as long as a door exists/ they are ideal options to secure your home, office, etc. Since the market is flooded with several Z-Wave smart locks, it becomes crucial to understand some important factors related to these locks.
Deadbolt specifications: The deadbolt is an integral part of any Z-Wave smart lock. They are simple bolts that lock the door when the knob/key is turned. Being different from the normal spring latches, they cannot be opened by lockpicking. The specifications define the type, the grade, hammer blow resistance, etc. of a deadlock. This matters a lot since the deadlock is the only link between the lock and the door. Access type: The Z-Wave smart locks are easy to access. They use access codes to lock or unlock the smart lock. These access codes are fed to the lock by a number pad or a connected app/software. Some smart locks also come with fingerprint scanners or even secondary keys to unlock/lock the door. This different option ensures accessibility to the lock in case one forgets the access codes or the keys to the lock. Smart Hub Compatibility: A hub can be described as the central unit of any smart home system. All the smart devices are linked to this hub and can be controlled from this centralized unit. Since the hub handles the commands from the user end to the receiver end (the device), a smart lock must be compatible with this hub. Many smart locks come with wider hub compatibility to ensure communication irrespective of the brand.
Considering these factors, a secure z-wave smart lock can be bought. As a smart lock is expected to provide unmatched security to your home, many manufacturers came up with their iterations of z-wave smart locks. These options are developed by keeping the above-mentioned factors in mind to help you choose the right smart lock for your application. But you also need to keep in mind some other added factors too. These essential factors are covered in our “Buying Guide” at the last.
Best Z Wave Smart Lock
Best Z Wave Smart Lock Reviews
1. Yale Z Wave Smart Lock
Yale Security is one of the trusted brands when it comes to home security. With years of experience in the home security industry, Yale has been constantly upgrading their products to unmatched quality and durability. The first product on the list follows the core values of Yale.
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The Yale Assure Z-Wave Smart Lock is an upgraded version of Yale’s previous generation of locks. This smart lock sports a backlit keyboard that is visible even in dark and helps you put in the access code with ease. The smart lock comes with an auto-lock feature which automatically locks the door when the door closes. The deadbolt is BHMA grade 2 certified which ensures unlimited lock/unlock cycles without putting any stress on the deadbolt. The deadbolt is easy to replace and can be customized from 1-¾ inch to 2-1/4 inches thick deadbolt. The lock is compatible with smart hubs and supports Alexa voice commands. The remote accessibility helps to lock/unlock your door at the convenience of your mobile app. The low battery alarms alert you to replace the batteries. Even if the batteries die, the lock is provided with physical keys which prevents you from getting locked out. The lock comes with switch mountings which makes the installation easy. Best Features:
Stainless steel body if the lock for durability Grade 2 deadbolt with BHMA certification Touchscreen code input with inbuilt battery slots Smart hub compatibility with Alexa voice command and remote control Physical keys for alternative access
Pros:
Easy to install due to the universal mounting Upgradable deadbolt for improved security Alerts when the battery level is low
Cons:
Only 1-year electronics warranty
2. SCHLAGE Z Wave Smart Lock
Schlage is a home security brand that has been operational for over 100 years. The locks manufactured by Schlage are known for their high-grade hardware. The craftsmanship of Schlage is seen in the current generations of smart locks too, which garners attention from the consumers. Schlage BE469ZP Smart Lock is a feature-rich smart lock. It comes with a nickel body and a touchscreen pad. This smart lock can store over 30 different access codes allowing access to different users. The lock can also be accessed with physical keys or smartphone apps. The strong deadbolt offers a strong link between the door and the lock. It is compatible with all smart hubs and can be controlled by voice commands(supports Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.). This smart lock can be configured for remote lock/unlock commands ensuring the safety of your house. The lock has an inbuilt alarm system that alerts the user for unauthorized entry attempts on the smart lock. The body is easy to install and comes with a battery slot at the backside. Best Features:
The body is made up of nickel material Storage for 30 different access codes Alternate access option via physical key Smart hub compatible Voice command support is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, etc Built-in alarm system
Pros:
Security alerts to the user in case of unauthorized access attempts Strong and durable deadbolt The batteries come included with the lock 3-years of warranty on the electronics
Cons:
Absence of low battery level indicator
3. ULTRALOQ Z-Wave Smart Lock
Ultraloq is a smart lock system developed by the silicon valley based U-tec company. Being known for the innovative technology used in smart lock solutions, the Ultraloq series offers best-in-class security to your smart homes. The next product follows these characteristics of Ultraloq. The Ultraloq U-Bolt Z-Wave Smart Lock is an advanced type of lock. The smart lock body is made up of zinc. The body is weatherproof rated and withstands any type of temperature variation. The deadbolt is certified as ANSI grade 1 which means the deadbolt is durable and can sustain higher impacts than normal locks. The deadbolt is replaceable and can be installed easily. The auto-lock feature locks the door without the need to recheck the door lock. The lock supports remote access and provides detailed logs on smartphone apps. Wider smart hub compatibility ensures connectivity with Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat, etc smart hubs. The battery slots are inbuilt and can accommodate 4 alkaline batteries easily which powers the lock. Best Features:
The lock body is made up of zinc and is weatherproof rated with an IP65 rating Deadbolt body is rated ANSI grade 1 and can withstand high impacts Auto lock/unlock feature with door sensor Compatible with voice commands and links with Samsung SmartThink, Hubitat, etc smart hubs Keyless entry option with physical keys for convenience
Pros:
The keypad is anti-peep which helps add random codes along with the current password, to avoid password detection The access code can be set to expire after a certain time gap Long-lasting battery life 18 months warranty on electronics and a lifetime mechanical warranty
Cons:
No inbuilt fingerprint scanner
4. Kwikset Z Wave Smart Lock
Kwikset is a well-known lock manufacturer with over 70+ years of experience. It has a wider range of smart locks, combination locks, etc. which guarantees a high level of security to your homes and offices. The combination of quality and technology in their lock systems makes them the consumer’s favorite. The Kwikset 98880-005 Smartcode Smart Lock is a compact smart lock. It comes with a metal body. The lock consists of an adjustable backset that extends from 2-⅜ inches to 2-¾ inches, offering a standard fit for any door. The deadbolt is motorized and supports the auto lock/unlock feature. The lock body has a backlit keypad that can be used to input the access codes. Talking about the access codes, over 30 different codes can be saved to the lock memory. The smart lock is remotely accessible and provides lock status notifications by e-mail and texts. The lock is compatible with smart hubs and can be controlled via an app. A battery slot is provided to the body to accommodate 4 batteries for the smooth operation of the smart lock. In case the batteries die, a physical key slot is also provided to help you unlock the smart lock. Best Features:
The lock body is made up of metal and comes with a bronze finish Easy to fit latch with adjustable backset range of 2-⅜ inches to 2-¾ inches Stores up to 30 different access codes Auto Locking feature with a 30-second timer Compatible with the z-wave plus chipset for remote accessibility with smart hubs Lock status notifications via emails or texts
Pros:
Keyless lock/unlock is possible through a smartphone app Improved battery life with space for 4 batteries Lifetime warranty on mechanical components
Cons:
Absence of touchscreen pads 1-year warranty on electronics
5. KeyWe Z Wave Smart Lock
KeyWe is a brand that focuses on the elimination of physical keys for door locks by providing keyless technology in their smart locks. The brand is well known for blending its stylish products with innovative technology which grabs the attention of the consumers. KeyWe Smart Lock is an innovative smart lock that is made up of high-quality material. The lock consists of an ANSI grade 2 rated deadbolt that ensures long life working and can withstand any theft attempts. The smart lock supports a hands-free function due to the NFC support and unlocks the door without any physical contact. The smart lock touchpad works lag-free and can accommodate 20 access codes. The smart lock supports Bluetooth connectivity and wifi connectivity which is essential for connection with smart hubs. This enables the real-time notifications of the lock and helps with the remote accessibility of the smart lock. The smart lock has a slot for 4 batteries with an average battery life of 1 year. If the batteries die, the smart lock can be unlocked with a physical key due to the availability of a keyhole. Best Features:
ANSI Grade 1 rated deadbolt One-time access code for guests Compatible with smart hubs and Alexa Supported with NFC, wifi, and Bluetooth connectivity AES encryption to the access codes Physical slot for key
Pros:
Keyless lock and unlock feature Real-time monitoring of the lock status with the app Extra long life of the batteries
Cons:
Bluetooth takes a long time to connect
6. SCHLAGE Z Wave Smart Lock
Another product from Schlage’s wider smart security range made it to the list. Since the craftsmanship of Schlage is known to the users, the next products follow the same values with an advanced technology upgrade. The Schlage Z-Wave Smart Lock is a high-quality smart lock with many anti-theft features. The body of this lock is made up of bronze which looks premium. The smart lock has a touchscreen that is fingerprint-proof. There is no chance of touchscreen surface wearing, which ensures the access code does not get revealed through the fingerprint patterns. The lock can save up to 30 different access codes. The deadbolt is made up of ANSI/BHMA grade 1 material which is strong enough to offer high security to your locks. The deadbolt is connected with three alarm settings which alert the user with normal to forced door opening activities. The universal latch design can fit an adjustable backset of sizes ranging from 2-⅜ to 2-¾ inches. The lock supports z-wave technology which easily connects the lock with any smart hub. This opens the door for remote control of the lock. Best Feature:
ANSI/BHMA grade 1 rated deadbolt body Smart lock body made up of bronze with antique finish Stores up to 30 different access codes Three different types of alert modes Compatible with smart hubs and supports z-wave technology Adjustable backset from 2-⅜ to 2-¾ inches in length Battery slots for 4 batteries
Pros:
Physical key slot for alternate access to the lock Fingerprint proof touch screen avoids fingerprint reproduction Remote connectivity is possible Easily compatible with right and left-hand opening doors.
Cons:
Only 1-year warranty on electronics
7. Kwikset Z Wave Smart Lock
Having discussed a Kwikset product before, another product from its wider range of smart locks made it to the list. The guaranteed high security with high-quality material used in the Kwikset products makes them ideal for home security solutions. The Kwikset 99160-020 is the sibling of the previously mentioned Kwikset 98880-005. This smart lock is made up of a metal body. The lock consists of a backlit touchscreen that wakes up from a hand gesture. Over 30 custom access codes can be saved in the smart lock memory. The electronic deadbolt is motorized which automatically locks after a 30-second time gap. The smart lock is remotely accessible if paired with the z-wave technology. This provides a remote lock/unlock feature for your door. A battery slot for 4 batteries is also provided to the body to power the lock. It also consists of the re-key technology where you can replace your current physical key with a new physical key. Best Features:
The lock body is made up of metal and comes with a satin nickel finish Stores up to 30 different access codes Auto Locking feature with a 30-second timer Compatible with the z-wave plus chipset for remote accessibility with smart hubs Re-key option to change lock access to a new key
Pros:
Improved battery life with space for 4 batteries Prevents any code detection with a fingerprint-proof touchscreen Easy to install Control by voice command is enabled with support for Alexa
Cons:
Buying Guide For The Best Z Wave Smart Lock
The increase in home security solutions has resulted in a flooded smart lock market. The manufacturers are rapidly developing their product line up which caters to consumer needs. The main concern is a secured home and hence the consumers won’t settle for a normal and underperforming smart lock. Therefore, we listed the best available options in the smart lock market along with their detailed specifications. If you are confused about the relationship between these specifications and a good smart lock, this buying guide will help you clear that confusion. The guide covers important factors which will help you narrow down the best smart lock for your needs.
1. Deadbolt Grade Rating
The deadbolt’s grade rating matters a lot since it is the load-bearing part of any lock. The deadbolts are different from the spring latches and hence they offer improved anti-theft protection. Since they are lock-pick proof, they are susceptible to hammer blows. ANSI/BHMA grades are given to the deadbolts which ensure certain properties of the deadbolt. Most deadbolts come with an ANSI grade 1 rating. This rating explains a lot about the deadbolt endurability. ANSI grade 1 specification means the deadbolt has undergone over 200,000 open and close cycles which ensures the durability of the deadbolt. The deadbolt also undergoes hammer blow tests where it has to endure 10 hammer blows with no movement.
2. Secondary Access Option
A z-wave smart lock is most commonly accessed via access codes. These codes are encrypted and allow exclusive access to the lock. Access codes are also tampering proof and hence they offer high security as long as the smart lock is power. Another option is the fingerprint scanner, which operates only through the allowed fingerprints. In case of power failure/battery dies, the smart lock must be available with other access options to prevent the user from being locked out. The current generation of smart locks comes with a physical keyhole. This can be used to unlock the door via a physical key. A re-key option is also available for these physical keys. This feature helps replace the current key with a new key, without changing the key slot.
3. Smart Hub Compatibility
Smart hubs are the centralized units of an interlinked network of different devices. The hub acts as the sending node that sends commands to the receiving nodes i.e the intended devices. Smart locks can be connected to these hubs with the use of z-wave technology. Since new z-wave chipsets are reverse compatible with the previous generation of z-wave chipsets, the technology offers wider compatibility to the smart locks. Evry z-wave smart lock is thereby compatible with any smart hub, by default. The smart hub compatibility also helps in unlocking remote control features for the smart lock.
4. Miscellaneous Features
Smart locks are also enabled with Bluetooth technology, which helps connect a smartphone to the smart lock in absence of an app. The NFC-enabled smart locks unlock doors without any physical touch. Magic? No. The NFC chip communicates with an NFC-enabled device and automatically unlocks the door when in range.
Conclusion:
Home security is an important aspect for every house owner. The smart locks act as a relief to this. It might seem difficult to find a good and secure smart lock for your home but when certain specifications are kept in mind, the selection process becomes easy. Today we offered a variety of smart locks to choose from.
The most important feature of a smart lock is the amount of security it offers. Hence the right choice for being the most secure on the list is Ultraloq u-bolt smart lock. This smart lock is made up of zinc and a weatherproof body that enhances its durability. The deadbolt is certified with ANSI grade 1, which makes it strong enough to bear sudden impacts and offer a long lifecycle. For the security part, The key operates with access codes. The access codes are provided with AES 128-bit encryption. Added security comes with the auto lock feature and an anti-peep keypad. A long-lasting battery pack ensures enough power for the smart lock. In case of a power failure, a secondary keyhole is provided to unlock the lock with a physical key. Our next option is a feature-rich option from Schlage. The Schlage z-wave smart lock is an improved smart lock with a nickel steel body. It comes with a touchscreen keyboard that stores over 30 different access codes. The deadbolt provides strength to the lock. The lock is compatible with smart hubs and supports voice commands with remote control. The unbuilt alarm alerts the user for theft or forced entry attempts. A 4-slot battery pack and a physical key keep the lock accessible in any condition. The last option is an affordable smart lock with no compromise over the security it offers. The KeyWe smart lock consists of an ANSI grade 2 certified deadbolt enclosed in a high-quality body. This deadbolt offers a strong locking bond between the door and the lock. The touchpad can save up to 20 different encrypted access codes. The door can be unlocked hands-free with NFC devices. Bluetooth connectivity, wifi connectivity, and smart hub compatibility make this smart lock a remote-controlled lock. A long-lasting battery pack helps provide power to the lock and still, the physical key can be used to access the lock. All these features and yet the KeyWe smart lock is available at an affordable price tag.
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