With more and more smartlocks on the market we thought it would be a good idea to explore some of the best smart features to look for. Maybe you’re thinking about upgrading your locking system to your first smart lock but aren’t sure which options would work best for you, or maybe you’re just curious about the benefits a smart lock can offer. Either way, welcome, let’s dive into some of the most game-changing features of a smartlock that can make your life easier and safer.
What is a Smart Lock?
Let’s start at the very beginning; a smart lock is a modern door lock that lets you lock and unlock your door without needing a regular key. Instead, it uses technology like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so you can control it with your phone, a code on a keypad, or even voice control. Most smart locks can integrate with other devices in your home, allowing you to check if the door is locked and even unlock it remotely for someone, no matter where you are.
Essentially, it’s an easy and secure way to make your life a little more convenient.
Top 10 Standout Features:
1. Autolocking
Do you ever leave the house then think “Did I remember to lock the door?”, or perhaps a family member forgot their keys and can’t get in, no need to hide a spare key, just unlock the door from your phone. Having that peace of mind is great if you’re one of those people – no judgement here! But more importantly it guarantees that your home or office is always as secure as possible.
2. Smart Home Integration
Not all smart locks have the ability to work together with your major smart home platforms (like a Google home or an Alexa), so definitely check this before committing to a smart locking system. This is a great way to improve your security system even further with the option to integrate your smart lock with other smart devices like security cameras or door sensors, like the Ring doorbell.
If you want to take convenience to the next level then you’ll love that you can actually create routines for your smart devices. For example, unlocking your door can trigger your smart lights to turn on and have your heating kick in, making it extra cosy from the moment you step through the door.
Other handy and secure options include getting real-time notifications if your door is left unlocked or setting up alerts for specific users so you’ll know exactly when they get home. Combining your smartlock with your smart home devices makes things even more simple as you can then control your whole home from just the Google Home app for example.
3. One-Time Passwords
One-time unique passwords are great for someone who needs access for a one-off occasion, like a builder or a friend watering your plants. With the ability to create codes that expire immediately after use you don’t need to worry about that person being able to get back into your home or office in the future without your permission.
4. Bluetooth
The benefit of having a bluetooth system with a strong bluetooth range means that it can actually sense when you are near your lock, eliminating the need to endlessly rummage for keys – especially in the cold and rain! Other smart locks can require you to use a keycard or a pin to unlock which we don’t think is quite as convenient as hands-free!
Bluetooth smart locks are also a great feature because they work without needing an internet connection, providing a secure and reliable way to lock and unlock your front door even during Wi-Fi outages.
5. Unlock from Anywhere
Knowing that from a tap of a button you can lock and unlock your property is a great power to have. Whether you need to let people in and out of your home, or you rent your property and need to allow access to guests, having access control even when you’re not home gives you unmatched convenience and peace of mind. You can manage access instantly and unlock and lock remotely, eliminating the need for spare physical keys or coordinating in-person handovers.
This feature is perfect for offices too, allowing you to grant access to clients or employees and securely lock up at the end of the day – even if you’re not physically at the office.
6. Fingerprint Recognition
One of the best features of a fingerprint reader lock is probably an obvious one, but a brilliant feature none-the-less. Since fingerprints are unique to each individual, it makes it nearly impossible for unauthorised access to occur. This provides a higher level of security compared to traditional keys or codes that can be lost, stolen, or shared.
There is also no need to carry physical keys or remember passcodes – just touch the scanner, and you’re in! This is especially handy for busy households or workplaces with multiple users.
Fingerprint smart locks often allow you to register multiple users, which allows you to easily control who has access and even track entry times for added accountability. Unlike passwords or codes, you can’t misplace or forget your fingerprint, ensuring you’ll always have access when you need it.
7. Wifi Enabled
With Wi-Fi connectivity, your smart lock can automatically download and install firmware updates, keeping it equipped with the latest features, performance improvements, and improved security protocols. This is an important feature to look out for when shopping for a smart lock as it ensures your lock stays reliable and secure over time, all without needing any manual effort on your part.
8. Time Limits on Passwords
If you have a rental property (like Airbnb) this is a feature you want to have on your smartlock. Time-limit passwords allow you to only give access to guests for the duration of their stay. This feature is especially useful for office smart locks, allowing you to restrict access to employees only during working hours, such as 08:00 to 17:00. It provides exceptional control over who can enter and when, ensuring your space remains secure and access is precisely managed.
9. Apple Watch to Unlock
Whether you’re into fitness and don’t want to carry a key on your run, or you always seem to have your hands full with groceries, kids, or work, controlling your door straight from your wrist with a smartwatch could be a game changer. It’s all about convenience and making life just that little bit easier!
10. Voice Control
Even better yet, there’s some locks on the market that work with home integration systems that allow you to control your front door with voice control! Pretty handy when someone’s knocking on your door and you want to let them in but you’re in the middle of something, instead of the loud “I”LL BE RIGHT THERE” why not a more relaxed “Alexa open the front door” to solve that problem.
Conclusion
Smart locks are revolutionising the way we think about home and office security. With so many innovative features, they don’t just increase safety, they make daily life smoother and more convenient. From automatic door locking that eliminates the worry of forgetting to lock the front door, offering peace of mind and ensuring security at all times, to one-time passwords and time-limited access that gives you complete control over who can enter your property and when, perfect for guests, workers, or Airbnb stays.
We believe smart locks are the future of door security. They not only protect your property but also bring incredible features that simplify your daily routine that a standard lock just can’t compete with. From improved safety to unmatched convenience, smart locks are truly changing the way we access and secure our spaces.
If you’d like some expert advice on how to start your smartlock journey, reach out to Veteran Locksmiths today. With over 10 years industry experience and hundreds of 5-star reviews from our customers we can be sure to provide you with reliable guidance and help you find the perfect smart lock solution to meet your needs.