Smart locks provide both reliable security and additional functionality to almost any door in your home. The type of smart lock that you should buy depends on the kind of door you want to secure. For instance, the smart locks that work with deadbolts effectively secure your front door, but not your sliding glass door or the patio door.
The sliding glass doors always remain vulnerable to intruders, and smart locks can bolster the security of such doors. One of the biggest problems with glass doors is their flimsy ‘latch locking’ mechanism. It is quite easy for any intruder to jimmy the mechanism and open the glass door.
Installing a smart lock on your glass door allows you to have an added layer of security that will help you feel more secure, especially when you are away from your home.
Most homes have two types of glass doors depending on the mechanism of their operation-
- Sliding doors
- Hinged doors
Some smart locks work great with sliding glass doors, while others work well with hinged ones.
What follows is a detailed buying guide to help you pick the best smart lock for your glass door and a review of some of the best smart locks you can buy today.
What factors to consider before purchasing a smart lock for a glass door?
There are several makes and models of smart locks specifically designed with glass doors on the market. Having these many options can be overwhelming, and unless you know what to look for, you might pick a smart lock that is either and overkill or inefficient.
However, if you know what to look for, you can easily narrow your search down and get a smart lock best suited for your needs.
- Size of the smart lock
Size is one of the biggest factors to choosing a smart lock for any door, but it becomes especially important in the case of glass doors. Glass doors seldom have a large area available to install. A big bulky smart lock like your front doors. Hence, you must consider how much space you have on your glass door before you even start looking for a smart lock.
It is also important to consider what kind of locking mechanism you have on your patio glass door. Some locks might not be compatible with sliding doors, so before making a purchasing decision, ensure that the lock you pick is compatible with the locking mechanism that your door has.
- Ease of installation
Ease of installation is very important if you are going to be installing the lock on your own. Some smart locks on the market are notoriously difficult to install, especially on a sliding glass door. If you end up buying a smart lock that is difficult to install, you might end up needing a handyperson to get the job done, which can add to the total cost.
Thankfully most smart locks, including those we will review in the following sections, are very easy to install. All you would need are a few screwdrivers, and you can get these installed within 20 minutes, even if you don’t have a lot of experience in home improvement jobs.
- A compatible locking mechanism
A smart lock is supposed to provide added security to your glass door, and hence the lock must be compatible with the locking mechanism on your door. Smart locks come with a more secure deadbolt mechanism as well as other simpler locking mechanisms. However, having a deadbolt provides more security as they are difficult to break in compared to another locking mechanism.
- Connectivity
Connectivity is yet another important feature to consider while purchasing a smart lock for your glass door. While most smart locks do come with Bluetooth options, some can connect with your home Wi-Fi network and even communicate with your existing home automation system like Amazon Alexa and Google home. Bluetooth connectivity is good, but it won’t allow you to control your lock if you are not in the range. On the other hand, if your smart lock has a Wi-Fi receiver, you can operate it from anywhere in the world, provided you have an active internet connection at your home.
If you wish to use the smart lock in conjunction with your home automation systems, ensure that the smart lock you pick can communicate directly with the smart home system you have installed in your home. While most smart locks in the market can connect with Alexa and Google Home, not all are compatible with Apple Home Kit. So, if you wish to use your smart lock for a glass door with Apple smart home system, your options might be limited.
- Access mechanism
It is also important to know how you will be able to access your lock before purchasing a smart lock for your glass door. While you can control most smart locks with your phone using a dedicated app, some manufacturers offer additional access options, including fingerprint sensors, manual keypads, and access cards.
Having these access options might not be what you are looking for, but they might come in handy during emergencies or if you don’t have your phone handy.
- Price
Like most things, smart locks for glass doors also come at almost every price point. While entry-level models can be quite affordable, advanced models might set you back hundreds of dollars.
Although a pricier smart lock for your glass door does not automatically mean that it is the best lock, it does pack in more features than your average affordable lock. That said, you might not need so many additional options, and in that case, even a cheaper smart lock will do the trick for you.
Now that we know what to look for while purchasing a smart lock for a glass door let’s look at the seven most popular and high-quality smart locks that you can buy.
Best Smart Locks for Glass Doors
ULTRA LOW UL3 BT (2nd Gen) Smart Lock
If you are looking for a smart lock that offers multiple ways to unlock your glass door, is affordable, and looks elegant, the ULTRALOQ UL3 might be the one for you. The smart lock comes with as many as five ways to operate, including fingerprint, code, smartphone app, smart card, and a physical key.
The installation of this smart lock is also very easy. It replaces an existing knob or lever on your glass door and is ideal for doors that don’t have a deadbolt like the backdoor, wine cellar door, home office door, or garage door. All you need to install this lock is just a screwdriver that comes with the smart lock.
You can unlock the door using Bluetooth with the standard easy-to-use smartphone app, but if you want remote access, you need an additional Wi-Fi bridge that is sold separately.
One of the best features that we liked on this smart lock is the speed of the fingerprint unlock. The lock uses the latest fingerprint scanning technology that offers added security and safety.
If you want to use the number pad, you have that option too; the large touchscreen touchpad is illuminated and has ‘anti-peep’ technology. It becomes impossible to crack the code based on your fingers’ oil residues left on the screen.
You can also enable the auto-lock feature that locks your door after a certain about of time, even if you forget to do so manually.
Overall, the ULTRALOQ UL3 is a great lock at a reasonable price point that is ideal for glass doors.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Multiple ways to access
- Looks simple and elegant
- Come with added security features
Cons:
- Does not have a built-in Wi-Fi receiver
- Not compatible with smart home solutions like Alexa out of the box
August Wi-Fi, (4th Generation) Smart Lock
If your glass door has a deadbolt, then the August Wi-Fi smart lock is perhaps the best lock that you can buy today. The smart lock is designed to fit inside of your door, making your existing deadbolt lock smarter. So, if you don’t want to mess with the look of your existing handle or knob, you can do so with this smart lock for the glass door.
Installing these locks is a breeze as well. Even if you are not very handy with tools, you can do it in less than 10 minutes, and you won’t even need any special tools to get it installed.
As the smart lock is Wi-Fi enables, it can be connected with your favorite voice assistant, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit.
The smart lock also features auto-lock and unlock features. It has a feature called DoorSence, which allows you to have the door locked after some time, even if you forget to shut it manually. There is no need to provide access codes or key cards; share the code with your friends and family and give them access to your home.
Pros:
- Multiple ways to unlock
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Good battery life
- Auto-lock and unlock modes
Cons:
- Does not have a fingerprint sensor
Yale Assure Touchscreen Smart Lock
Unlike the August smart lock, the Yale Assure Touchscreen Smart Lock is attached to the outside of the door. The smart lock looks dashing and offers several features that make it one of the best smart locks for glass doors with deadbolts.
The smart lock features an in-built Wi-Fi receiver, making it compatible with all the major smart home services, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. You also can unlock the door using a dedicated Yale app that is even available on the Apple watch. With DoorSense technology, you can program the door to lock or unlock after a certain time.
Although the lock is a bit pricey, it does come with a Wi-Fi connect bridge that you don’t have to purchase additionally. The large touch screen number pad on the front of the lock is fingerprint resistant and comes with anti-peep technology.
We also liked the user interface of the Yale app, which makes it one of the easiest to use smart locks available on the market, even for seniors.
Pros:
- Easy to use and install
- Multiple ways to unlock
- SmartSense auto-lock feature
- Compatible with smart home solutions
Cons:
- The Wi-Fi can be a bit patchy at times
- No official IP water-resistant rating
Lockly PGD728WSN Secure Pro
One of the highest-rated smart locks on Amazon, the Lockly Secure Pro deserves its place on this list of best smart locks for glass doors. The smart lock is compatible with most entries, including glass patio doors. Built with a zinc alloy, the lock is resistant to corrosion even in high humidity climates.
One of the most interesting features of this smart lock is the patented keypad that is claimed to be more secure than any other keypad on the market. The Patented ‘PIN-Genie’ technology is supposed to make it nearly impossible to breach the keypad security.
However, suppose you are not into keypads. In that case, you can have the Lockly Secure Pro communicate with your smart home solutions, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, to operate it using your voice commands.
You can also remotely lock or unlock the home using the dedicated app and also see a detailed log of who entered your home right on your phone.
With a limited five-year mechanical and 2-year electronic warranty, this is a tough lock to overlook.
Pros:
- Great connectivity
- Compatible with all smart home systems
- Patented number pad
- Intuitive app
- Good warranty
Cons:
- Batteries can drain quickly
Eufy Security Smart Lock
Another highly rated smart lock on Amazon, the Eufy, is one of the few smart locks on the market, IP65 waterproof and Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) certified.
You can operate this lock with as many as five unlock options- fingerprint, smartphone app, electronic keypad, mechanical key, and using smart home systems.
The built-in Wi-Fi receiver makes it compatible with almost all smart home solutions, including Alexa and Google home. With an improved fingerprint sensor, the smart lock can register your fingerprint in less than 0.3 seconds and open the lock within a second.
As with most of the smart locks on this list, the Eufy also comes with smart sensor technology that automatically locks the door after a predetermined time.
One of the most interesting features of this lock is its IP65 waterproof rating, making it one of the best locks for patio and glass doors that are often exposed to natural elements.
Pros:
- In-built Wi-Fi
- Compatible with most smart home assistants
- Five ways to unlock
- Upgraded fingerprint sensors
- IP65 waterproof rating
Cons:
- The absence of the inclusion of Bluetooth is a missed opportunity on the part of the company.
U-Bolt Pro
If you are looking for a compact smart lock for your glass door that is easy to install, the U-Bolt is a deserving candidate. It checks almost all the boxes when it comes to smart locks.
The smart lock is easy to install and allows you to control your glass door with six different unlocking mechanisms. The lock also comes with a mechanical key, just in case of an emergency.
The smart lock also comes with a Wi-Fi hub that needs to be installed inside your house to make the smart lock truly unlock its potential. With the smart hub installed, the safety can easily communicate with your smart home assistants, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and even Samsung SmartThings.
The 3600 live fingerprint id and anti-peep number pad make it virtually impossible for the intruders to mess up the lock. Besides, the availability of a physical key makes the lock that much more secure.
Pros:
- Compatible with smart home solutions
- Comes with six unlocking mechanisms
- Easy to install
- Value for money
Cons:
- Wi-Fi is not built into the lock; you need to plug in the hub in your home.
Narpult Smart Door Lock
If you are on a budget but want all the smart lock features on your glass door lock, the Narpult Smart Door Lock can be a great option. Although this lock does not come with Wi-Fi built-in, you can purchase a Narpult Wi-Fi gateway to make this lock truly smart. You can also unlock this lock using smart cards as well.
The lock can be unlocked with your smartphone, a keypad, or even a fingerprint. It is one of the few smart locks that are BHMA certified that is very easy to install.
One of the most useful features of this lock that even the more expensive locks lack is the alarm system. If someone tries to force open your patio door, the lock will sense it and start beeping loudly to alert you or your neighbors.
If you are looking for an elegant, smart lock that won’t cost you a lot, consider Narpult Smart Door Lock.
Pros:
- Multiple ways to unlock
- Easy to install
- Elegant looks
- Affordable
Cons:
- You need to purchase the Wi-Fi gateway to enable a remote lock facility.
Smart locks not only improve the security of your home. They also make locking and unlocking the door easy. You can’t go wrong with any of the recommended smart locks mentioned in this guide. However, you should pay attention to the specific features you need to make a final purchasing decision.
Best Smart Locks for uPVC doors
Best Smart Locks for Churches
Do All Smart Locks Require Batteries?
Smart Lock Vs Electronic Lock: What’s the Difference?
FAQs
Which smart lock is the most secure? ›
- August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. The best smart lock overall. ...
- August Smart Lock. The best smart lock value. ...
- Schlage Encode Plus. The best smart lock for Apple Watch owners. ...
- Lockly Flex Touch. A discreet smart lock with a fingerprint reader. ...
- Schlage Encode. ...
- Yale Assure Lock 2. ...
- Kwikset Halo. ...
- Level Bolt.
Cons Of Having A Smart Lock
Smart locks communicate with your phone, usually via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. If your phone is stolen, you lose it or it dies, you could get locked out if you don't have a backup plan (like logging in to your account on another device).
Not only can many smart locks be hacked, but they also are proven to have other vulnerabilities like the ability to be removed with a flathead screwdriver. Since smart locks often work with an existing deadbolt, this may mean they have the same level of security as traditional locks.
Are smart locks better than key locks? ›When compared to the average pin tumbler lock installed on homes, a superior quality smart lock with a steel deadbolt pin is more secure. Plus, by eliminating the cylinder and keyed entry from the door, homeowners are making a solid upgrade to a device that is much more difficult to pick or pry open.
Which is more secure Schlage or Kwikset? ›Schlage also has a slightly higher ANSI grade of security certification than Kwikset for its smart locks, meaning they're just a little bit safer and tougher to break, but Kwikset locks are still exceptionally strong. In favor of Kwikset, its locks also tend to be slightly cheaper than Schlage counterparts.
Is it worth buying a smart lock? ›If we frame the new generation of smart lock as an upgrade instead of a fix, the answer is yes, there is room for improvement. Smart Locks mean you have one less thing to worry about when leaving the house or office and offer a wide range of benefits.
Do smart locks affect insurance? ›Some models even allow you to assign special privileges to friends or family members. If you do have one, you should make sure that you keep the door lock apps updated, the passwords secure, and have a PIN enabled. Electronic door locks or digital door locks don't currently affect your home insurance.
What happens if Wi-Fi goes out with smart lock? ›Will Smart Locks Work Without Internet? If your home uses any type of smart lock, you'll be happy to know that they will still work even if the power goes out. This includes door locks that are controlled over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a physical keypad.
What happens if power goes out with smart lock? ›Your Smart Lock will give you low-battery warnings for multiple weeks before it loses power. However, if your Smart Lock dies entirely before you can replace your batteries, your key will still work. This is the same deadbolt key that you've always used - the Smart Lock doesn't change the key needed.
Is smart lock safer than deadbolt? ›While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.
Can a locksmith unlock a smart lock? ›
Smart Locks
These are locks that have not been made using traditional locking mechanisms. Therefore, the locksmith is not going to be able to use the typical set of tools to open these locks. In order to open a smart lock, the locksmith needs to have advanced IT and programming knowledge to get the lock to unlock.
Some smart locks, as well, might be fairly easy to break into if they are poorly made and not sold through a reputable company. A safe smart lock will have all of the built-in safety measures of a standard lock in addition to safety measures in place to prevent hacking.
Which company is best for door locks? ›We recommend Ozone, Godrej, Dorset, Atom, Yale, Milano, Spider, IPSA, and McCoy 8M as Top 10 door lock brands.
What is the most effective lock? ›Deadbolt door locks are the most secure type of key lock and are usually used on a home's exterior door. Available in single- and double-cylinder styles, deadbolts are rated according to their strength from Grade 1 to Grade 3. A Grade 1 is the highest grade and provides the most security.
Which is better lock or key? ›Keyed Padlocks vs. Combination Locks. Since they don't contain dials, keyed locks offer a superior level of security when compared to combination locks. Unless a thief has the key, he or she won't be able to open it.
Are Kwikset SmartKey locks easy to pick? ›This tool was developed specifically because the SmartKey lock is so tough to pick -- locksmiths needed another way to force the lock open for their locked-out customers. Of course, if this tool falls into the hands of criminals, they can get past your lock in mere seconds.
Are Schlage locks hard to pick? ›With a better, more precise manufacturing process and 2 additional security pins than the Kwikset deadbolt, Schlage locks are significantly harder to pick, bump or compromise in non-destructive ways.
Do smart locks have a monthly fee? ›How much do smart locks cost? Smart locks start at $100 and can cost up to $300 depending on the setup and accessories you need. There are no monthly fees associated with the use of a mobile app for smart locks—the cost is solely from the hardware and installation.
How long do smart locks last? ›Several factors play into how long your batteries will last, including environment, temperature, and weather stripping. Typically, battery life ranges from 6 months to 1 year.
What is the difference between a smart lock and an electronic lock? ›The difference between smart door locks and digital locks comes down to one simple factor – smart door locks can be controlled by an app on your smartphone, while digital door locks cannot. Because of that, there isn't really a one-size-fits-all answer as to whether or not a smart door lock is better.
Do smart locks void insurance? ›
As it stands, smart locks don't currently affect your home insurance as long as they work in conjunction with a mortice deadlock, your front door will be considered just as secure as a standard key-operated lock.
How much does it cost to install a smart door lock? ›It costs about $175 to $450 for professional installation of a keyless lock. This includes the cost of the unit itself and labor costs. The price could rise if a new door needs to be installed. Further costs include changing the doorknob.
Do smart locks increase home value? ›Smart homes command higher prices and may be easier to sell as a result. The key is having smart products installed and functioning before you list your home, because most buyers don't want a prewired home that still needs products installed.
Does Smartlock drain battery? ›Yes, the battery in the smart lock will drain faster if you connect it to the Wi-Fi Bridge. The connection between these two devices will consume the battery of the smart lock.
Do I need Wi-Fi bridge for smart lock? ›What if I don't get a smart lock bridge? You still can use many smart lock features in the offline mode, working via Bluetooth only. You get to open and lock the door with a smartphone, you can share its access through an app, and automatic locking and unlocking are always there.
Do smart locks fail? ›Our point is to give you a heads up, so that before purchasing this type of lock, you should know that smart lock technology can fail. The chances are low but nevertheless real. But then again a standard lock technology could fail too.
Do all smart locks require batteries? ›Most smart locks on the market still require batteries these days, but there are a few examples that work just like this showcased technology here.
Do smart locks automatically lock? ›And some smart locks offer features like auto-locking that allows you to set a time at which your door will lock automatically at night.
Do smart locks have a manual override? ›Yes, you will get 2-3 manual override keys depending on the model and 3 RFID cards.
Are any smart locks secure? ›While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.
What happens if smart lock battery dies? ›
Your Smart Lock will give you low-battery warnings for multiple weeks before it loses power. However, if your Smart Lock dies entirely before you can replace your batteries, your key will still work. This is the same deadbolt key that you've always used - the Smart Lock doesn't change the key needed.
How secure are smart key locks? ›SmartKey cylinders feature ANSI Grade 1 security, are bump-proof and highly pick resistant while also passing the most stringent security standards, UL 437, par 11.6 & 11.7.