Managing keys for your vacation rental can be a logistical nightmare. We've all been there, rushing to meet guests for a late-night check-in, coordinating with cleaners needing access between stays, and worrying whether previous guests made copies of your keys. The traditional lock-and-key approach isn't just inconvenient; it creates security vulnerabilities for your property.
Smart locks have revolutionized property access management for short-term rental (STR) hosts. They eliminate key exchanges, provide remote access, and offer temporary codes that expire after checkout. For Airbnb hosts serious about streamlining operations while enhancing security, a quality smart lock is an essential investment.
In this guide, we explore why every Airbnb needs a smart lock, the critical features to consider when choosing the best smart lock for your rental property, detailed reviews of the top models, and answers to common questions about keyless entry systems.
Why Your Airbnb Needs a Smart Lock
Smart locks aren't just convenient gadgets; they're foundational business tools that provide significant ROI for short-term rental operations. Here's why they've become essential for successful hosting:
Unmatched Security and Peace of Mind
Traditional keys have security vulnerabilities: they can be lost, copied, or not returned. Smart locks eliminate these risks. Every guest gets a unique access code that expires after checkout, so you won't worry about unauthorized access. Most smart locks provide detailed entry logs, creating an audit trail of who entered your property and when. Need to revoke access for a guest who's violated house rules or a contractor who no longer works with you? Do it instantly from your smartphone, providing control over your rental property's security.
A Seamless 5-Star Guest Experience
Today's travelers expect convenience, and nothing delivers like automated check-in. With a smart lock, guests no longer need to coordinate arrival times or meet someone for key handoffs. They receive their unique code before arrival and can check in whenever they arrive, whether on time or at 2 AM after a delayed flight. This flexibility reduces travel stress and enhances the guest experience, often leading to better reviews. Many guests filter for Airbnbs with self-check-in options, making this feature a competitive advantage.
Supreme Operational Efficiency
The time-saving benefits of smart locks are extraordinary for hosts. Remote management lets you grant temporary access to cleaners, maintenance, or delivery services from anywhere. No more driving across town to let someone in or hiding keys under doormats. For multi-property hosts, this efficiency scales dramatically, allowing you to manage a fully automated guest experience across all listings without being physically present.
How to Choose the Best Smart Lock for Your Rentals
Not all smart locks offer the same features, and the unique demands of a rental property require specific capabilities. Here's what to evaluate when selecting the best smart lock for your Airbnb:
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Zigbee
Smart locks connect to your phone and other devices through various protocols:
- Wi-Fi: The gold standard builtin Wi-Fi offers true remote access from anywhere with an internet connection. It is the gold standard for Airbnbs as it doesn't require additional hardware.
- Bluetooth: Connects directly to your phone nearby (usually within 30 feet). Limited range means no remote management unless paired with a bridge.
- Z-Wave/Zigbee: Wireless protocols needing a compatible hub. They create reliable mesh networks but add complexity and cost.
We recommend locks with built-in Wi-Fi to manage access remotely without extra equipment for vacation rentals.
Access Methods: Keypad, Smartphone App, & Backup Keys
User interaction with your lock is crucial for guest satisfaction:
- Keypad: Essential for rentals. Not all guests want to download apps, and international travelers may have limited data. A physical keypad ensures everyone can access your property regardless of technical ability.
- App Access: Convenient for some users, but it should be secondary to keypad access for rentals.
- Backup Key: While the goal is keyless entry, it is prudent to have a physical key backup for emergencies (power outages, battery failures, etc.).
Code Management: Temporary & Recurring Codes
This feature is non-negotiable for STRs. Your lock must support:
- Temporary Codes: Ability to create time-limited codes that activate at check-in and deactivate at checkout.
- Multiple Codes: Support for numerous unique codes simultaneously (for guests, cleaners, maintenance).
- Recurring Codes: Scheduled access for regular service providers (e.g., weekly cleaning staff).
- Remote Management: Ability to create, modify, or delete codes from anywhere.
Battery Life & Low-Battery Alerts
A dead battery could lock out guests and trigger emergency calls. Look for:
- Battery Life: The best locks run for 6-12 months on standard batteries.
- Low-Battery Notifications: A critical feature that alerts you before failure so you can arrange a replacement.
- Emergency Power Options: Some locks have external terminals for connecting a 9V battery if internal batteries fail.
Software Integration (PMS & Channel Managers)
For advanced hosts or those with multiple properties:
- PMS Integration: Some locks integrate with Property Management Systems to automatically generate and send codes upon booking.
- Smart Home Ecosystem: Compatibility with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit for broader automation.
- API Access: Some locks offer API access for custom integrations for professional managers.
Durability, Weather Resistance, and Security Rating
Your lock will face constant use and harsh elements:
- ANSI/BHMA Ratings: Industry security standards (Grade 1 is highest, Grade 3 is basic).
- Weather Resistance: Look for IP ratings indicating water and dust resistance for exterior doors.
- Construction Quality: Metal components outlast plastic ones.
- Warranty: An indicator of the manufacturer's confidence in durability.
A robust lock is crucial for securing your property and ensuring reliable operation through thousands of guest entries.
The 5 Best Smart Locks for Airbnb & Short Term Rentals
Here are our top picks based on years of managing properties. We prioritized reliability, ease of use for hosts and guests, and robust features.
1. Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Best For: Reliability and Ease of Use
Approximate Price: $320
The Schlage Encode Plus is the gold standard for vacation rental smart locks. This deadbolt combines solid construction with modern connectivity, building on Schlage's century-long reputation for security. It features built-in WiFi, eliminating the need for additional hubs, and offers compatibility with major smart home ecosystems including Apple Home Key for iPhone and Apple Watch users.
Why It's a Great Airbnb Smart Lock: The Encode Plus excels in rentals due to its straightforward operation and management capabilities. It stores up to 100 access codes, plenty for rotating guests and service providers, and allows precise scheduling through the Schlage Home app. The keypad is illuminated for night arrivals, and the lock's commercial-grade construction withstands heavy use. For hosts, remote access management provides peace of mind and flexibility.
Pros:
- Built-in Wi-Fi (no hub needed)
- Highly durable and secure (ANSI/BHMA Grade 1)
- Easy to create and delete user codes remotely
- Support for Apple Home Key
- 3-year electronic warranty
Cons:
- Higher price
- Bulkier design than competitors
- Battery life shorter (about 6 months) with Wi-Fi enabled
2. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen)
Best For: Easiest Installation / Keeping Existing Keys
Approximate Price: $230
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock retrofits your existing deadbolt instead of replacing it. This compact, elegant device attaches to the interior side of your door, transforming your current lock into a smart one while preserving the exterior appearance and original keys. At 2.8 inches in diameter, the 4th generation model is 45% smaller than its predecessor while adding built-in Wi-Fi.
Why It's a Great Airbnb Smart Lock: The August lock is ideal for hosts wanting to minimize installation complexity or maintain their property's exterior aesthetic. It offers robust remote management through the August app, including real-time notifications, access logging, and the unique "DoorSense" feature that confirms when your door is closed and locked. The standard configuration requires guests to download the August app, but you can add an August keypad for code-based entry. The auto-unlock feature is convenient for hosts visiting their properties.
Pros:
- Incredibly simple installation (just a screwdriver, 15 minutes)
- Preserves your existing exterior lock and keys
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Auto-unlock when you approach the door
- Compatible with most standard deadbolts
Cons:
Requires separate purchase of keypad for code access.
Shorter battery life (3-6 months)
Not as weather-resistant as fully integrated locks
3. Yale Assure Lock 2 with Wi-Fi
Best For: Sleek Design and Versatility
Approximate Price: $280
The Yale Assure Lock 2 combines minimalist design with maximum functionality. This slimmer successor to Yale's Assure series offers a touch keypad, optional key access, and modular connectivity. The Wi-Fi version provides complete remote management, while Yale's 1840 security reputation ensures peace of mind.
Why It's a Great Airbnb Smart Lock: This lock was designed by Yale with rental hosts in mind. The sleek touchscreen keypad resists wear patterns that might reveal codes, and the modular design means you can upgrade connectivity without replacing the entire lock. The Assure Lock 2 supports up to 25 unique pin codes, auto-locks after a set time, and integrates with major smart home platforms. Its appearance enhances your property's front door for listing photos and first impressions.
Pros:
- Sleek, modern design with illuminated keypad
- Versatile connectivity options
- Auto-lock functionality
- Voice assistant compatibility (Alexa, Google, HomeKit)
- Available in multiple finishes
Cons:
- Lower code capacity than Schlage (25 vs. 100)
- In very cold weather, touch keypad can be less responsive.
- More complex setup than some competitors
4. Wyze Lock Bolt
Best For: Budget-Conscious Hosts
Approximate Price: $80
The Wyze Lock Bolt offers impressive functionality at an unbeatable price. This battery-powered smart deadbolt features a fingerprint reader and a backlit number pad, offering multiple access methods. It lacks Wi-Fi connectivity but provides solid Bluetooth-based management through the Wyze app.
Why It's a Great Airbnb Smart Lock: The Wyze Lock Bolt removes the financial barrier to keyless entry for new or budget-conscious hosts. Despite its affordability, it doesn't compromise on essential rental features like time-limited access codes and detailed entry logs. The fingerprint reader is a unique addition at this price point, unlocking the door in one second. The main limitation is the lack of remote access; you'll need to be within Bluetooth range (about 30 feet) to manage codes, so rely on automatic code expiration or visit the property to make changes.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Fast fingerprint reader (1-second unlock)
- Backlit keyboard
- One-time, temporary, and recurring codes
- Simple installation
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi connectivity or remote management
- Requires being nearby (Bluetooth range) to add/delete codes.
- No integration with vacation rental software
- Less established lock industry
5. Eufy Security S230 Smart Lock
Best For: All-in-One Security with No Subscriptions
Approximate Price: $250
The Eufy S230 Smart Lock offers a compelling package for hosts seeking comprehensive security features. This lock combines a traditional keypad and fingerprint scanner with a built-in 2K security camera, allowing you to see and speak with visitors through two-way audio. It includes built-in Wi-Fi and local storage for video clips, with no subscription fees.
Why It's a Great Airbnb Smart Lock: The integration of a security camera with a smart lock provides hosts with additional verification of who's entering their property, perfect for remote management. You'll receive real-time alerts with video when someone approaches your door and can store up to 50 fingerprints and 100 passcodes. The camera includes person detection to reduce false alerts and infrared night vision for 24/7 monitoring. For hosts concerned about security or managing properties in urban areas, this all-in-one solution provides extra peace of mind without monthly fees.
Pros:
- Integrated 2K security camera with two-way audio
- No subscription fees
- 100-code capacity with scheduled access
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Fast fingerprint recognition
Cons:
- Larger profile due to camera integration
- A relatively new product with less track record
- More complex setup than standard smart locks
- Shorter battery life (about 4 months)
FAQs
What happens if the Wi-Fi or power goes out?
Smart locks work during Wi-Fi outages or power failures. The lock's keypad and stored access codes function independently of your internet connection because they're saved in the lock's memory. When the Wi-Fi goes down, you lose remote management capabilities (the ability to add/delete codes from afar), but guests can still enter using their assigned codes.
Battery-powered smart locks are unaffected by power outages. Most models last months on standard batteries and send multiple low-battery warnings. Many locks also include a physical key option or emergency power terminals for a 9V battery to enter your code.
Can smart locks be hacked?
While no connected device is completely immune to hacking, reputable smart locks employ security measures that make them significantly more secure than traditional keys. Leading brands use AES 128-bit encryption (the same standard used by banks) to protect communications between your lock and its servers.
A determined intruder would find it easier to force a door or break a window than to hack a smart lock. The most vulnerable aspect of any smart home system is the user's account credentials. You can enhance security by using strong, unique passwords for your lock's management app and enabling two-factor authentication.
How difficult is it to install a smart lock?
Most smart locks are designed for DIY installation in 30-60 minutes with just a screwdriver. Standard deadbolt replacements like the Schlage Encode and Yale Assure fit standard doors (typical holes). The process involves removing your existing deadbolt, installing the new lock mechanism, attaching the exterior keypad and interior housing, connecting the wires, and inserting batteries.
Retrofit options like the August Smart Lock are simpler. They attach to your existing deadbolt's interior thumb-turn, leaving the exterior hardware untouched. This takes just 15 minutes and does not require removing the entire existing lock.
If you're uncomfortable with the installation or have a non-standard door, professional installation services are available through hardware stores or handyman services, typically costing $75-150.
Conclusion
One of the highest-impact upgrades for your vacation rental business is choosing the best smart lock for your Airbnb. A quality smart lock eliminates key management headaches, enhances security through customized access control, and delivers the seamless self-check-in experience that today's travelers expect. Whether you prioritize reliability with the Schlage Encode Plus, easy installation with the August Wi-Fi, elegant design with the Yale Assure 2, budget-friendliness with the Wyze Lock Bolt, or comprehensive security with the Eufy S230, the return on investment is substantial and immediate.
Implementing smart lock technology is one piece of the property management puzzle. If you'd rather focus on your investment while an expert team handles the day-to-day operations, from smart lock management to 5-star cleanings, Checkmate Rentals is here to help. Our nationwide team of vacation rental experts can transform your property into a hands-off, high-performing investment that delights guests while maximizing your revenue. Visit Checkmate Rentals to discover how we're redefining property management for the modern host.
