The Best Locks for Apartment Door & Rentals

Apartments doors can be made safer, and better with the use of smart locks. Not to mention, they are far more convenient, and secure, to use. We strongly prefer deadbolt replacements, as apartment locks. 

On that basis, we recommend the Schlage BE499WB CAM 619 Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock with Apple Home Key is our top choice as the best Apple lock, which is a small, attractive, keyless entry door lock with Camelot trim, and satin nickel.

For doors with a single hole, the ULTRALOQ Latch 5 World’s First Built-in WiFi Smart Lock is a robust choice and shares similar features to our top choice. Drawing from our experience, we felt that the Digitalspacecontrol High-Security Smart Wi-Fi Door Lock with Screen is the best multi-functional lock. 

It comes with a screen, mobile app, 3D face recognition, and biometric fingerprint. 

Our Top Choice (our top three) 

1. Schlage BE499WB CAM 619 Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock with Apple Home Key (Best Apple Lock)
2. Digitalspacecontrol High-Security Smart Wi-Fi Door Lock with Screen (Best Multi-functional Lock)
3. ULTRALOQ Latch 5 World’s First Built-in WiFi Smart Lock (5-in-1 Keyless Entry Electronic Door Handle)

Best Locks for Apartment Door

Below are some of the best locks for apartment doors. We have listed them based on their features, capabilities, testing done in the lab, and the real-world scenario. Without further ado, let us read to find out more about the locks. 

1. Schlage BE499WB CAM 619 Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock with Apple Home Key – Best Apple Home Key

The Schlage BE499WB CAM 619 Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock with Apple Home Key is our top choice, as the best Apple home key on the list of the best locks for apartment door. We were truly impressed by its features and capabilities firsthand in our lab.

Moreover, we were able to control and monitor our apartments, homes, and businesses from anywhere with the Schlage Home app. It really worked and gave us peace of mind. The model comes with a range of up to 100 access codes, which we can lock or unlock. 

There is also a wide range of features like viewing lock history, receiving customizable notifications, and easily managing multiple locks at once. Of course, the lock needs to be operated using a reliable Wi-Fi network. 

Our team member noticed that it works effortlessly with the help of the Apple HomeKit and also the Apple Home keys. The home keys can be used by simply tapping on them to lock and unlock, using the Apple Watch or iPhone.

Besides, it also can be used with the help of Google Assistant & Amazon Alexa, as an optional, hands-free convenience paired with the Schlage Home app., The lock can be installed with the help of a screwdriver. 

It fits standard doors with 1-3/8 in. to 1-3/4 in. door thickness and 2-3/8 in. or 2-3/4 in. backset. During our research, we came to know about how a user found this lock ideal for his elderly mother.

Despite the fact that she is disabled, she could open the door with the help of voice commands, without having to physically go to the door. Besides, her son can also lock it for her remotely, and when she has a fall or accident at home, then Life Assist can be used to call 911.

Moreover, the family is notified, and they can enter inside remotely. We also felt that the manual lock on the door is easier for this deadbolt lock, which is not tricky at all. 

Bottom line:

The Schlage BE499WB CAM 619 Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock with Apple Home Key is our top choice, as the best Apple home key. The model comes with features like built-in Wi-Fi compatibility, voice control, and advanced security, and is elderly-friendly.

2. Digitalspacecontrol High-Security Smart Wi-Fi Door Lock with Screen – Best Multi-functional Lock

The Digitalspacecontrol High-Security Smart Wi-Fi Door Lock with Screen is second on our list of the best locks for apartment door, as the best multi-functional lock. We found this lock model as the best option for apartment owners, Air nib, and rental owners.  

We found it extremely useful for our cause, as we could easily enter the apartment and exit without too stress much. We were able to view the person who is standing outside the door in real-time when the doorbell is rung. 

As soon as the doorbell is pressed, the mobile app sends a picture and unlock request. We can view the picture and decide whether or not to open the door. This makes it the most ideal choice for homes, offices, apartments, and condos as well. 

It is not surprising to note that many rental property owners make use of this model as it is useful for them. The unit has an 8-in-1 unlock with 3D face recognition, biometric fingerprint, password, combination unlock, IC card, mobile app, manual key with an additional temporary password, and virtual password.

The biometric semiconduction fingerprint sensing helped us to avoid the fake fingerprint unlock. Besides, the anti-peep password adds any number of digits before and after the real password digits. 

We were able to make use of the combination locking to successfully unlock. When we swapped the magnetic card, we needed to enter the password to unlock the door. We were amazed to know that it is a fully automatic intelligent anti-theft door lock.

It comes with a 4200 mAh large-capacity lithium battery, which can be used continuously for up to 18 months. With the help of 3D technology, the door can be unlocked in a dark-light environment.

We were amazed to know that the door can’t be unlocked using photos, so it makes it quite safe. It can support 16-digit virtual passwords and protect passwords from being leaked. Our team members entered any number, and in-between entered the correct password for the door to unlock. 

A small, but handy feature, is when there is somebody unwanted standing near the door. Its mobile app USmart Go can be used to set different forms of passwords like a one-time password & temporary password to use for different visitors.

Bottom line:

The Digitalspacecontrol High-Security Smart Wi-Fi Door Lock with Screen is our runner-up on the list as the best multi-functional lock. It comes with several features including a 4200 mAh large battery, is simple to fit, and is easy to work & use. 

3. ULTRALOQ Latch 5 World’s First Built-in WiFi Smart Lock – Best 5-in-1 Keyless Entry Electronic Door Handle

The ULTRALOQ Latch 5 World’s First Built-in WiFi Smart Lock is our third choice on the list of the best locks for apartment door, as the best 5-in-1 keyless entry electronic door handle. Let us find out more about the lock model.

The model can be controlled from anywhere we wanted to. It also has Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, 802.11b/g/N that can be controlled from anywhere through the U-tec app. Users can now easily share codes for scheduled access, permanent, or temporary with family, friends, and people they can trust.

We liked the fast fingerprint response on the lock model. The lock is able to recognize the user’s fingerprint in less than one second. The model is able to auto-lock after a specified amount of time.

So, there is no need to worry about whether the lock has been locked after unlocking it. The build quality is robust. It comes with a sturdy zinc alloy construction, and we have also tested the unit with a busy household. 

It has a weather-proof feature that makes it ideal for protecting outdoor locks from rain and snow. The smart lock has been produced such that it can fit any US standard door. There is no wiring required, and drilling is needed. 

However, when users are not sure, they can take the help of a professional locksmith. It depends on the user. We were able to install the lock in under 1 hour because our participant is familiar with using the locks. 

The maker provides 30 days of worry-free return & exchange service. They also have a lifetime mechanical warranty and 18 months electronic warranty.

Bottom line:

The ULTRALOQ Latch 5 World’s First Built-in WiFi Smart Lock is the best 5-in-1 keyless entry electronic door handle. This model has some amazing features like Wi-Fi keyless entry smart lock, a 5-in-1 keyless electronic door handle, and fingerprint code & a mechanical key.

4. Gerda G1000 High-Security Lock – Best Commercial Lock

We have another interesting model on our list of the best locks for apartment door in the form of the Gerda G1000 High-Security Lock. The Gerda G1000 High-Security Lock is our best commercial lock ensuring maximum security for commercial buildings and apartments. 

The 3D key interacts with 16 pins placed on 4 different levels. It is an interesting mechanism that has the ability to create 4 billion combinations. We were amazed at the durability and tensile strength of the lock model. 

That is because it is designed as a heavy-duty cylinder door lock. There are anti-drilling steel pins, ball bearings, and a hardened core. We had a tough time cracking the code with this lock. It comes equipped with modern and cutting-edge security features, which can be used for a wide variety of applications. 

Our team members felt that it is helpful for an apartment, house, garage, or safe. We are also delighted to inform you that it comes in several attractive colors, produced from an aluminum cover, which is easy to replace if damaged. 

It comes backed by over 20 years of expert product development and is great for storing documents and jewelry. Our team members were quite happy using the lock. It comes with a solid steel casing and reinforced lock bolts. 

They gave an extra sense of security, and the keys are quite slick to use. Besides, the lock works fantastically, without hassle

Bottom line:

The Gerda G1000 High-Security Lock is the is our best commercial lock providing maximum security for commercial apartments. The model comes with features like it is a patented rim cylinder, advanced key system, and heavy-duty cylinder door lock.

5. SMONET Deadbolt Lock with Keypad – Best Bluetooth Electronic Digital Lock with Reversible Handle

Our next product on the list of the best locks for apartment door is the SMONET Deadbolt Lock with Keypad. This model is the best Bluetooth electronic digital lock with a reversible handle. Though the maker was founded only in 2016, SMONET is a popular lock brand. 

According to the maker, if the wrong password or fingerprint is applied more than 5 times, then it will be locked for 5 minutes. The only way one can gain entry or access to the door lock is through the key or administrator’s TTLock app.

Our team member noted the fact that this is a 5-in-1 smart lock deadbolt model. It comes infused with an advanced fingerprint, IC card, passcode, TTLock app control, and a mechanical key. 

It also has remote voice control that can be used with the help of Google Assistant and Alexa. We noted that the app can use real-time monitoring of the door state, and the record of lock/unlock.

It also finds out the remaining electricity. It is produced from zinc alloy and can withstand harsh climatic conditions with ease. It is waterproof having an IP65 rating, along with 150+ passcodes, 250+ fingerprints, 1000+ IC cards, and 1000+ authorized admin. 

According to the maker, the installation does not take more than 15 minutes. This is something that we sadly, were not able to verify, so we can’t comment on that. We suggest that users take professional help when it comes to smart locks. 

The package does come with a user manual or short installation video. However, the door lock can be used on standard US wooden doors and is designed with reversible left and right door levers. 

The lock has a wide range of applications as it can be used in apartments, homes, offices, schools, hotels, and warehouses. The model is also priced affordably, meaning that users of all ages, can get it, if they want. 

They provide 30 days of free returns or exchange service. It also comes with a 1-year warranty and free lifetime technical support. Users can contact their customer service, and they have assured their best to help you.

Bottom line:

The SMONET Deadbolt Lock with Keypad is the best Bluetooth electronic digital lock with a reversible handle. The lock has incredible features including a fingerprint passcode, auto-lock, keys, IC card, and the TTLock app.

Buying Guide – Factors to consider for the best locks for apartment door

We looked for the following features when choosing the best locks for the apartment door in the market. We have discussed about them briefly: 

• Installation & construction

We felt that the installation & construction of the smart locks are the most crucial factor in deciding on them. They should be easy to install, without having to spend a lot of money on that. Besides, they should come quite elegantly designed, robust in build quality, and compatible with the standard door fittings.

Usually, most smart locks are compatible with the standard doors in America. They come designed as either deadbolt or latch-and-lever construction. These designs are quite safe & secure, but the deadbolt locks are easy to install.

• Power source & Connectivity 

Next, we wanted to know more about the power source & connectivity of the smart locks in the market. The smart locks are operated with the help of 2-3 batteries that have to be installed inside them without the use of any power source. 

However, these models should come with low battery notifications and automatic battery replenishment. These details must be offered through the smart home hub or with the help of the smartphone app. 

Most of the smart locks can be connected to the smartphone through Bluetooth.

• Lock and unlock & compatibility

The smart locks can be locked and unlocked through the smartphone with the help of a compatible mobile app. They can also feature touchscreen keypads for locking and unlocking the apartment or home front door. 

Some top-end models come with a hands-free unlock using Bluetooth technology. Moreover, they can be paired with the smart home automation system like the Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. 

But smart locks can support voice commands with the help of smart speakers and home automation systems.

• Security & integration

We also thought that the models should come with a strong build quality. These should be able to make use of encryption to safeguard user data. A few of them have tamper alarms, and some others can send text alerts if the door gets locked or unlocked without your approval. You can install the best home security system for your rentals.

Besides, some units also come with two-factor authentication for added security. We found some models that have smart home cameras and speakers to provide voice activation and video monitoring. 

Who is this for?

Smart locks are meant for not only apartment owners, but also homeowners, property owners, and building owners. When users are on the lookout for a proper locking system at bay, then the best idea would be to install a smart lock on their property. 

We decided to opt for smart locks because they are so versatile. They come with an array of features that make them superior to the traditional mechanical locking system. Though mechanical locks have been around for many decades now, maybe centuries for all we know, smart locks are the new thing. 

They can be used, operated, and worked through the smartphone. Millions of users have access to the latest smartphone, which could be an Android or iOS device. These smart locks can be used by the smartphone. 

Besides, we did not feel the burden of carrying a bunch of keys in our pockets, bags, or backpacks. All we required was a working smartphone. It could be an Android or iOS device. we could enter homes and exit the apartments with the utmost ease. 

This is also helpful for those who are absent-minded. Now, they do not have to worry. We have a team member who is quite absent-minded, and he was pleasantly surprised with this new discovery. 

That is why, he changed his mechanical lock to a smart lock after taking permission from his landlord and is quite pleased about his new possession. The smart lock not only keeps him safe & secure but ensures that he does not have to worry about locking and unlocking using the traditional method of keys. 

Moreover, it makes things easier for other individuals who need to leave parcels, letters, and other items on the outside of your apartment or building. Now, users can keep track of them with the help of the smartphone or device itself. 

Now, users may wonder what if kids can handle a smartphone or device when the parents in the house are taking a rest or inside the washroom. Well, apparently the smart lock makers are quite intelligent and have designed them such that they can be linked to a single device. 

There are platforms that can work on the smartphone including Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, etc. When the user has been able to configure the lock on the smart platform, then it can be used only on that device. 

The smart locks won’t work on other devices. Moreover, as we have explained in the above paragraphs, the smart lock can trigger a string of automated actions like turning the lights on & off, and switching on the thermostat, when the front door is locked or unlocked. 

Below are a few methods through which smart locks are useful for any apartment or property.

• There is no need for the user to carry the keys with them anymore because everything can be used through the smartphone.
• The user can create and share a custom code with house guests or last-minute visitors. This is suitable for rental property owners.
• Parents can keep track of their kids when they are back from school, college, or night parties. 
• The house cleaner, plumber, or nanny can be provided with access to the apartment. 
• The owner can get notifications when somebody is trying to enter the apartment or when the door opens or closes. This way, the user can keep track of all those who are entering and exiting the apartment or property. 
• Finally, when the user is out of station, and somebody who is a trusted member of the family requires access, then it can be done either remotely or with the help of a time-restricted e-key.

Having said that, based on our research, we felt that smart locks are ideal for rental property owners, Airbnb hosts, and rural property owners, who are often not found inside their homes. Here they have to deal with frequent key exchanges. 

Most of smart locks provide a feature called as code creation for guests. This feature is a boon for these kinds of rental property owners. Moreover, the smart lock is the perfect security solution for business owners who want to keep track of their property and ensure that all the equipment, items, and supplies are safely placed inside. 

Here is a small tip, for those living in a classic or vintage home or apartment that is more than 40-50 years old. The door frame most likely has to be altered or replaced entirely. It may cost a small investment, but it is only one time and will work wonders in due time.

How did we pick the best locks for apartment door?

There are two main categories of smart locks. The first requires the user to completely replace the entire deadbolt or doorknob assembly. Then one has to install the hardware inside the door or frame in the building, home, or property. 

The second is a deadbolt adapter that also comes with an add-on device. This unit replaces the interior thumb that is used to turn the door’s existing deadbolt working concept. That is why, we searched for models that came with the right balance between security, convenience, and ease of use. 

We also searched for managing the locks through the smartphone app. Most of smartphone locks can be managed using the smart-home controllers. Some of them include Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.

Besides, some models also allow users to activate other smart devices too. Some of them include switching lights on and off. Some units can also help change the mode of a thermostat, and so on. 

Earlier, smart locks needed a gateway or device, which could relay the communication from the lock to the smartphone, but today, that is no longer needed. Most of the models that we reviewed, came with the ability to integrate with other smart devices.

When there is an Alexa-compatible smart thermostat, then we were able to set them accordingly, when the front lock gets unlocked. We also did consult with some top lock experts from Amazon, and through other websites as well. 

How have we tested for the best locks for apartment door?

We have spent several thousand hours researching about different products throughout our lustrous careers. We have been using, testing, and reviewing smart locks for many years now in our lab.

Besides, we have our own team of members and participants who were kind enough to use them in their regular lives and give us their feedback. Readers will be amazed to know that we did have some weird and funny incidents where one or two smart locks had their batteries dead. 

Sadly, one lock got disabled due to a software update that one of our team members did unintentionally. These things happen as part of our learning process. We are open to learning new things every day. 

Though we understand that mechanical locks are far easier to use & operate, the variety of features that smart locks provide us is numerous. The mechanical quality and proper installation of a lock are critical factors, but we focused on the experience of using these devices.

We concentrated mostly on their consistency, reliability, and ease of use. We also methodically check the working of the locks using the smartphone, along with the Wi-Fi connectivity in our homes, offices, and other areas. 

Based on the response, we report our feedback. It is the same with our team members and the participants. We explore the available preferences like enabling auto-lock, turning audio signals or LED lights, and auto-unlock functions.

We check for the usefulness, speed, and reliability of the notifications. Not to mention, we also see about the ease of adding and managing the access codes present on the smart locks. Likewise, we concentrate on the hardware as well. 

We look at the ease of installation and the quality of the materials used. Wherever possible, we communicate with the producers, and manufacturers about their manufacturing processes. This helps us to learn more about the smart locks working, operations, and functionalities. 

We strongly disagree with the fact that the smart lock is fundamentally more vulnerable than a standard door lock. Though, intruders may technically exploit the smart lock electronically, the chances of that are quite less, because we have been monitoring the smart locks for more than 10 years now. 

According to some lock experts, there are many thieves who are actually capable of cracking the smart lock code. The only option for them would be breaking open the door using an axe or a crowbar, which we feel, again is too risky given the number of electronic devices that are around us in the market. 

A notable feature of smart locks is that they notify the user when the front door or the doors are left unlocked. Moreover, they come with security cameras as part of their package that alerts the user when intrusion is detected at the home.

This is something that traditional locks can’t perform. We did worry about the fact that the models allowed auto-lock and auto-unlock features in them. The thing is that the feature can provide your location (a technology also known as geofencing) through a cellular signal, Bluetooth, GPS, and Wi-Fi. 

Moreover, when the door fitted with a smart lock opens by itself may cause the user to have risk, leaving the front door open to anyone. Users can make use of another option that we found useful, using geo-fencing as a trigger. 

It requires the user to confirm the unlock signal on the smartphone, and then only it activates the signal. This is a secure, and convenient approach. This can come quite handy when the users live in a remote or rural region, where the risk can be more of a personal judgment call.

We recommend that users avoid integrating smart locks with platforms like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Some models come with a two-factor authentication, that makes use of a special PIN code before changing the lock settings.

Why should you trust us? 

Our readers can trust us because our main editors have a combined experience of more than 40 years in the locks market. Besides, they have solid connections with popular apartment door lock producers in the world. 

We have been testing smart locks, and a wide range of other door locks, for many years now. Moreover, we have been covering technology trends for three decades in a number of national online publications. 

In our office & homes alone, we have more than a dozen locks. It is safe to say we have lost count of them because most of them do not work properly all the time. Our team member worked in the locking industry for 10 years before deciding to begin a career in content writing. 

He is passionate about the toughness & robustness of the apartment door lock models. We too, were amazed at the reliability of the apartment lock’s ability to withstand the pressures of cutters, pliers, and grinders. 

We also consulted some lock experts on their suggestions. Based on their ideas, tips, and advice, we have come up with this list. We were quite particular about the sturdy production and design of the apartment locks. 

After all, there has been a steady increase in the cases of intrusion in many American homes. Moreover, we analyzed, researched, and reviewed the locks for the apartment door in the lab. They came with warranties and replacements. 

Our team members & participants also tested these locks in their homes and gave their feedback to us. We are pleased to say that they were quite impressed, and the locks were able to keep them safe. 

We can tell you that the information provided in this review is entirely true and was based on our testing and reviewing. We also took the suggestions of our editors, team members, and participants.

FAQs

Conclusion

This is it. We have concluded our review of the best locks for apartment door. We hope that you were able to make up your mind based on the models that we have provided after conducting experiments with them.

Keeping your apartment safe is surprisingly easy with a lock like Schlage BE499WB CAM 619 Encode Plus WiFi Deadbolt Smart Lock with Apple Home Key. It is a small, attractive, keyless entry door lock with Camelot trim, and satin nickel.

If you want a high-tech lock, we recommend going with Digitalspacecontrol High-Security Smart Wi-Fi Door Lock with Screen as it comes with an 8-IN-1 unlock with 3D face recognition, biometric fingerprint, password, and many others.

Finally, when you are on the lookout for a temporary option, you can simply make use of a door security bar. Have you used any of the above products before? If then, please do write to us in the comment section below giving us your feedback, as we would love to hear about your experiences with the locks for apartment door.