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Quick picks

Best overall

Retrofit smart lock that fits existing deadbolt without drilling

Best budget

Simple keypad lock with no monthly fees

Best for beginners

Smart lock with clear physical backup key

Best for travel

Keypad lock for short-term rental and sublet access

No subscription

Lock with local control and no paid plan for core features

Product Best For Joy Score Key Strength Main Drawback Price CTA
Retrofit smart lock group August, Yale, Level Renters who want smart access without permanently changing the door or deadbolt. 8.3 Landlord-friendly installation Setup complexity $120-$280 Check Price
Keypad smart lock group Schlage, Aqara, Yale Renters who want a cleaner keyless entry experience and can get landlord approval. 7.8 Clean keyless entry More permanent installation $80-$200 Check Price

Buying checklist

  • OK Check lease restrictions before buying any lock.
  • OK Prefer retrofit locks that do not require drilling.
  • OK Keep the original hardware to reinstall when moving out.
  • OK Watch for locks that hide core features behind subscriptions.
  • OK Confirm key or code backup exists for dead batteries.

Last updated: . Buying advice reviewed for relevance, hidden costs, and current page links.

Best Smart Locks for Renters

A smart lock in a rental is different from a smart lock in a home you own. The best option is a retrofit model that works with your existing deadbolt and leaves no trace when you move out. If your landlord agrees to a full replacement, keypad locks can offer a cleaner experience.

This guide is research-based. DeviceJoy does not claim hands-on testing. Compare August, Yale, Level, Schlage, Aqara, and similar locks by installation type, key backup, Matter support, subscription requirements, and setup difficulty.

Best for different renters

  • Best for strict leases: retrofit smart lock with no drilling needed.
  • Best for approved replacements: keypad smart lock with Matter support.
  • Best for Airbnb or sublet hosts: keypad lock with temporary code support.
  • Best for Apple Home users: Matter-compatible lock that works with Home Key.
  • Not ideal for: renters who cannot get any type of approval or who want a lock with zero hidden fees.

What to avoid

Avoid locks that require permanent door modification unless you have explicit landlord approval. Also avoid locks that lock essential features behind a subscription: remote access, activity logs, or code management should be free on a lock at this price.

Hidden costs

Many smart locks need a separate hub or bridge for remote access. Door sensors are sometimes sold separately. Batteries, installation tools, and replacement hardware if something breaks are also common add-ons. Subscription-free operation is not universal, so check before buying.

FAQ

Can I install a smart lock without drilling?

Some retrofit models work with your existing deadbolt and require no drilling. Full replacement locks usually require removing the current deadbolt.

Will a smart lock violate my lease?

It depends on the lock type and your lease terms. Retrofit locks are easier to reverse. Full replacement locks are riskier without explicit permission.

Do smart locks work with Matter?

Newer models from Yale, Schlage, and Aqara support Matter. This can help with setup in ecosystems like Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, and SmartThings.

What happens when the battery dies?

Look for a physical key backup, external battery contacts, or a keypad that still works on backup power. Some locks have a USB port for emergency power.

Final recommendation

Start with a retrofit smart lock that fits your existing deadbolt and does not require drilling. This preserves your deposit and avoids landlord friction. If you have approval for a full replacement, choose a keypad lock with Matter support, reliable key backup, and no subscription for core features.

Product recommendation details

August, Yale, Level

Retrofit smart lock group

$120-$280

Research-based pick: compare retrofit design, deadbolt fit, door sensor needs, Matter support, key backup, and subscription-free use.

Check Price

DeviceJoy Score

8.3 / 10

Best for: Renters who want smart access without permanently changing the door or deadbolt.

Avoid if: You need a full replacement lock that includes the exterior keypad.

Usefulness
8.0
Setup Ease
7.0
Reliability
8.0
Hidden Costs
8.0
Joy Factor
9.0

Pros

  • No permanent door changes.
  • Original hardware can be reinstalled later.
  • Good for apartments with strict door policies.

Cons

  • Setup can be more involved.
  • May need a separate door sensor.
  • Can require a hub for remote access.

Common complaints

  • Some retrofit locks struggle with older deadbolts.
  • Door sensor setup can be finicky.

Hidden costs to check

  • Door sensor (if separate)
  • Hub or bridge for remote access
  • Installation tools

Schlage, Aqara, Yale

Keypad smart lock group

$80-$200

Keypad locks replace the entire interior and sometimes exterior assembly, which is less ideal for renters without approval.

Check Price

DeviceJoy Score

7.8 / 10

Best for: Renters who want a cleaner keyless entry experience and can get landlord approval.

Avoid if: Your lease prohibits any lock replacement or door modification.

Usefulness
8.0
Setup Ease
8.0
Reliability
8.0
Hidden Costs
8.0
Joy Factor
8.0

Pros

  • Clean keyless entry experience.
  • Often works without a hub.
  • Matter support available in newer models.

Cons

  • May require deadbolt replacement.
  • Harder to reverse before move-out.
  • Battery failure without backup can be a problem.

Common complaints

  • Some models require a subscription for useful features.
  • Touchscreens can fail over time.

Hidden costs to check

  • Replacement batteries
  • Hub if Wi-Fi is not built-in
  • Potential lock replacement if incompatible with new door