The Best Smart Locks for Your Connected Home (2026 Edition)
Compare three smart-lock candidates, ecosystem considerations, supplied editorial scores, and clearly disclosed retailer links.
Affiliate disclosure: HomeTenet may earn a commission if you buy through links in this article. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Our recommendations reflect our editorial evaluation. Privacy & Disclaimers
Three locks, three different priorities
A connected lock should fit your door, your household, and your ecosystem. This shortlist compares the Schlage Encode Plus, Aqara Smart Lock U100, and August Smart Lock Pro using HomeTenet’s editorial scores.
At a glance
Price badge key: $ = entry tier · $$ = mid tier · $$$ = premium tier. These symbols express relative positioning, not a quoted price or live Amazon price feed.
| Product | HomeTenet score | Decision focus | Price tier | Retail CTA and disclosure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Plus | 9.4/10 | Apple Home Key shortlist | $$$ | Check Price on Amazon — [Paid Link]: HomeTenet may earn a commission. |
| Aqara Smart Lock U100 | 9.2/10 | Elite Biometric Fingerprint & Apple Home Key Integration. Zigbee / Bluetooth (Matter compatible via Hub) |
$$ | Check Price on Amazon — [Paid Link]: HomeTenet may earn a commission. |
| August Smart Lock Pro | 8.7/10 | Retrofit installation shortlist | $$$ | Check Price on Amazon — [Paid Link]: HomeTenet may earn a commission. |
Schlage Encode Plus — 9.4/10
Start with this candidate when Apple Home Key is central to your access plan. Consider the required Apple home hub and the model’s Matter limitations alongside its access features.
Price tier: $$$.
Check Price on Amazon — [Paid Link]: HomeTenet may earn a commission.
Aqara Smart Lock U100 — 9.2/10
Key benefit: Elite Biometric Fingerprint & Apple Home Key Integration.
Connection protocol: Zigbee / Bluetooth (Matter compatible via Hub).
The U100 combines fingerprint access with Apple Home Key support. Matter compatibility requires a compatible Matter-enabled Aqara hub acting as a bridge; the lock itself is not a native Matter-over-Thread device. Confirm the selected hub and Apple Home setup before choosing a bundle. Aqara U100 product guidance and manufacturer FAQ.
Price tier: $$.
Check Price on Amazon — [Paid Link]: HomeTenet may earn a commission.
August Smart Lock Pro — 8.7/10
Keep the Pro model separate from the newer August Wi-Fi Smart Lock when comparing bundles. Check door compatibility, the existing key arrangement, and the Connect bridge requirement before selecting a retailer listing. August Connect guidance.
Price tier: $$$.
Check Price on Amazon — [Paid Link]: HomeTenet may earn a commission.
What to check before choosing
- Door fit, deadbolt alignment, emergency exit requirements, and backup entry.
- Exact model, generation, bridge or hub, and supported ecosystem features.
- Offline behavior, firmware support, battery maintenance, and privacy settings.
- Current retailer availability, bundle contents, and return terms.
Our evaluation principles
HomeTenet’s testing standards cover setup, reliability, responsiveness, power use, and privacy. Our editorial approach distinguishes measured findings from manufacturer specifications and considers the exact model and bundle.
Questions or corrections: admin@hometenet.com.