How much does a smart lock cost?
The cost of a smart lock varies considerably, firstly because some (like the Bold) are simply a replacement for the euro lock cylinder, while others (like the Yale Conexis L1) are a whole new lock and door hardware handle. Installation is a key consideration here, as fitting a more complex lock might cost as much as the lock itself.
However, fitting a smart lock can be a complicated business, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and find a professional if you’re in any doubt at all.
Another cost consideration is the accessories, such as separate hubs to connect smart locks to wider smart home systems, extra fobs for family members, and in some cases separate keypads for extra security.
What to think about when buying a smart lock
Buying a smart lock in the UK is complex for several reasons. Firstly, some locks are not insuranceapproved (more on that below), so standard home insurance may not cover your contents once fitted. Secondly, there is a range of UKspecific lock systems and some of these are not compatible with smart locks.
Thirdly, very few smart locks are compatible with all of the common smart home platforms, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and Apple HomeKit (the Yale Linus being an exception).
Existing lock system
The first thing to check when looking for a smart lock is your existing lock system, which in the UK varies widely. One of the most common is the Euro cylinder pattern, which you’ll find on most modern UPVC and composite doors, and is relatively easy to swap out for another lock body.
Most of the smart locks here are designed around this system, as it’s relatively standardised, very common, and modular. An equally common model is the rim cylinder night latch, which is widely catered for, especially by Yale. It has undoubtedly become the ‘Hoover’ of rim cylinder locks, as locksmiths refer to “Yale” locks as a shorthand for “rim cylinder locks”.
Smart home compatibility
Next, you’ll need to take into account any existing smart home gadgets you have like security cameras, alarm systems, video doorbells and plugs – and check whether your chosen smart lock is compatible. Most locks will work as standalone units, but the real benefits come when integrated into a smart home system so that more complex and sophisticated events can be catered for.
For example, you might want to connect your heating to the main door lock so the house warms up automatically when the door is opened, and maybe turn the lights on too.
Visibility and location
Another consideration is visibility and location. There are two schools of thought in smart lock design, one that involves an obvious “smart lock” and keypad on the outside of a door, and the more subtle approach that operates the inside of the lock, leaving the outside looking like a standard keyoperated door lock.
The stealthy models are a much better proposition for homeowners and renters, looking for a smart lock to improve security. The more visible options with keypads are more tailored to higher traffic situations, such as an office building or maintenance area, where large numbers of staff might need access at various times, but nonauthorised people need to be kept out.
Can smart locks be hacked?
The fact is, some smart locks are more secure than others, and many of the locks here on test are from recognised experts in the security game. This is partly due to obscurity – there are few smart locks “in the wild”, and some (notably the Brisant and Avia) that take pains to look like a normal lock from the outside.
It’s worth bearing in mind that casual house burglars will not be technically adept enough to even consider hacking into a smart lock, and the hackers that can pull off such technical feats are usually not walking the streets looking for personal effects to steal.
The best, most secure smart lock will be compromised by poor security elsewhere on your network, so changing default router admin passwords and other basic digital security steps should be done during installation.
Similarly, if you’re using your phone as a key it needs to be secured with a password or biometric login such as a face or fingerprint scan, and kept as safe as possible when out and about.
That said, adding a smart aspect to your home lock does add the possibility (albeit remote) that it may be hacked, so it’s worth considering carefully where to use them. A good example might be to install a smart lock on the outside door of a porch, allowing you to remotely open the door for couriers or the postman, all while keeping the traditional inside door firmly locked.
Are smart locks insuranceapproved?
Smart locks as a breed are a mixed bag. The cheap clones available from major internet retail sites are in general absolutely not insuranceapproved, although it’s not always the case.
Some insurers might specify that doors have multipoint locks secured when the property is empty, but this might not apply when a smart lock is used for “access management”, such as allowing family members to come and go while one family member is at home, for example.
Other locks, such as the Yale Conexis L1, are insurancerated and tested and can offer separate, standalone compensation if a lock fails in realworld conditions. In short, you get what you pay for. Established brands will do a much better job than unbranded budget options, but it always comes down to the specific wording of your insurance, and how you are using the smart lock.